




COPYRIGHT DEPOSIT 

















V 




THE DAUGHTER 
OF ANGY 

By 

DORA M. M. GOODWIN 



RICHARD G. BADGER 

THE GORHAM PRESS 
BOSTON 


Copyright 1911 1 by Richard G. Bddger 
All Rights Reserved 



The Gorham Press, Boston, U, S, A, 


©CI,A300185 


Dedicated to my Aunt, 
Miranda Janvrin {Shaw) Browne 



THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 



THE 

DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


I 

R uby Hastings, do you realize what you 
have done? Dad ought never to forgive 
you,” she said, pointing one finger 
reproachfully at herself in the pier glass. 
What a canvas for a Raphael, a Rembrandt or a 
Velasquez. 

Her dark hazel eyes, her light wavy hair, her rosy 
cheeks and lips and dimpled chin, her grace of figure, 
all making my heroine a fairy goddess, holding in 
her extended hand the light of inspiration, a beacon 
light that blends the soul with immortality. 

Refinement dwelt in the mahogany panelling of 
this room on Beacon Hill. The rosy hued carpet 
had an air of hospitality and bade her sit down and 
be content. 

“How strange it all is,” she said, sinking into a 
chair. “If it had not been for those girls, I never 
should have thought of doing it; but let me see! He 
said it was for my good to stay here, my life was in 
danger. ” 

Her fingers clutched the pages nervously. “You 
are to have hosts of admirers,” her notes read, 
“discerned by you from certain marks and events.” 
7 


8 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


“ ‘Certain marks and events,’ how strange and 
yet those girls believed in him. Wellesley is dear to 
me, its associations and its memories. After my 
visit to dear old dad and mamma, back again I shall 
come. ” 

Her face beamed with a happy smile as she spoke 
aloud. 

“ ‘Whatever comes in your life you always will be 
protected from harm. ’ ” 

“What was that,” she cried, as a moaning, creak- 
ing sound came from without. She dropped her 
notes and peered out into the gathering gloom. 
What mysterious figure lurked in the Court. 

The fights of the Common shone but dimly. The 
air was laden with sleet. 

“It’s going to be a dreary night,” she said, going 
back to her notes. 

“I must wire mamma in the morning that I have 
not started.” 

“ ‘If any one asks you why you do certain 
things, ’ ” she read, “ ‘tell them a voice told you to. ’ 
How very strange! People will think college girls 
are queer geniuses, if I should,” and she laughed 
merrily. “And mother, what will she think if I 
word a message, ‘A voice told me to stay on Beacon 
Hill,’ without any explanation.” 

Time wrapped the mantle of oblivion about her 
and she slept all unmindful of the fury of the storm 
outside. 

The snow came in swirls and twists, pelting against 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


9 


the panes with unceasing fury. The drifts were 
piling in unshapely masses on the Common and in 
the streets impeding the car traflSc and the cabbies 
with lash and curse were abreast the storm. Mid- 
night came. The old timepiece on the landing 
commenced droning the hour, “one, two, three,” 
and a musical voice said, “where am I? Oh!” and 
as if recollection helped her, she counted aloud 

“five, six, seven, eight twelve 

o’clock.” 

“Whew — ew — ew!” went the wind. She rubbed 
her eyes. The windows rattled and on came another 
gust tugging at the walls, jarring her bed in its mad 
frenzy. “Was that man a wizard, a prophet or a 
philosopher? He foresaw all this. It was this 
terrible storm he saw in my path that threatened 
my life.” 

“Whew — ew — ew!” came the torrent of sleet 
pounding at the panes for admittance. 

She sprang from her bed, her beautiful hair rest- 
ing like a royal diadem on her head. She brushed 
it back and with a bounding step gained the win- 
dow. 

She peered through it and with a whirlwind of 
thought clutching at her heart strings, she spoke. 

“White crystal crowns, moulded into a monument 
for the dead who sleep not under the sod but in the 
arms of inmortality.” 

On came another gust. It seemed to her the last 
before the sashes would give way and destruction 


10 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


would be in its wake. She gathered up her papers, 
dressed herself hurriedly and started toward the 
door, but in doing so she caught sight of herself in 
the mirror. What a frightened face it was! She 
walked toward it. 

“ Calm thyself, Ruby Hastings, God is thy keeper 
and in Him you should trust. ” 

And the words rang in her ears. “Fear not. He 
who guides the tempest, has your life in His keeping. 
Whatever comes in your life you always will be 
protected from harm.” 

Her face calmed, her eyes gained their limpid 
beauty and she sank back to rest ’mid the whirling 
tempest of the wintry blast. 

:{: 4c ^ ^ % 

“Oh, doctor save him,” she cried hysterically. 
“Save him, save him.” Then came an indescrib- 
able wail. 

Ruby opened her eyes. “Oh! Oh! Oh!” she 
panted, “give me water.” 

“Herald, Globe, Post. Full account of the 
catastrophe. ” 

“Where?” she cried. She gazed about her. The 
faint light caught the pallor of her cheeks. 

“Have I been dreaming? Oh! Dad, Dad, are 
you really safe?” 

“ Full account of the horrible train wreck. Herald, 
Globe, Post.” 

“Am I awake? ‘Train wreck’ did he say?” and 
she raised herself to a half sitting posture. 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 11 

u 

“Herald, Globe, Post!” came the high staccato 
of the newsboy. 

“Yes, I am awake and Dad, he^s all right. Oh, 
but how real it all was. The dashing steed rushing 
along the Ocean boulevard, the plunge of the horse. 
The motionless body of poor Dad on the macadam 
with the doctor standing over him. 

“Oh,” and then a voice seemed to whisper in her 
ear. “Whatever comes in your life, you will always 
be protected from harm. ” 

“I must peruse this book today from first to 
finish. I am thoroughly in earnest. What an old 
book it is. Pubhshed ’way back in the seven- 
teenth century.” 

The storm became an echo, so interested did she 
become. The shrill staccato of the newsboy died 
into oblivion. 

Food became an uncalled for commodity. 

Back into the centuries she went; yes, back to 
the days of Nero, Alexander the Great and Pope 
Gregory XV. Reaching out with greedy thought 
she caught the enthusiasm of this rare old book 
with a bound, tossing it back into the recesses of 
thought with a challenge that civilization would be 
its Mecca. 

And the clock on the landing played its part, and 
time holds the secrets of the hours as one by one 
their herald calls. 


II 


R ebecca Ann needs no introduction to 
this narrative as we shall see by her open- 
ing words. “I told Hiram he was a fool 
and this confirms it. ‘The train ’sail gone 
to smash, ’ ” she read aloud from the morning Examin- 
er, “ but he would have her start. How often I have 
told him his strong will would be the ruination of him. 
Yes, that ’s the train. I ’ll make sure, ” and she made 
a hurried examination of Ruby ’s letter telling the day 
and time of her expected departure from Boston. 

“Angenette says ‘yes, yes’ to every thing her 
husband says, so what I had to offer on the subject 
of storms and wash outs, went for naught.” 

Her long pointed finger kept her place on the 
column. She read aloud. 

“Engineer and fireman reported dead. All Pull- 
man passengers on car No. 2 thrown over an enbank- 
ment and perished. Car No. 8 was ditched and 
had not a fire broken out, many lives would have 
been saved.” 

“What’s the news, Ann? This is a nice bright 
morning. Angenette is out in the garden.” 

“Yes! I dare say, always behind, looking into 
something. ” 


12 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


13 


“You’d better call her. Read this,” and she 
thrust the paper before him. “What did I tell you, 
Hiram Hastings!” 

Hiram threw his match hastily into the open 
grate, and took the paper. 

Angenette appeared, just as a look of horror 
darkened his face. 

“Here are some roses for you, dear,” she said, 
moving forward as quickly as her fleshy frame 
would allow. “These are better than ever — ” she 
ran on “and Ruby will just revel with them.” 

“Ruby,” cried Rebecca Ann hysterically, “Look 
at Hiram! Look at the paper!” she blurted out. 

“Oh! Rebecca, please stop. Oh, Angy!” and 
Mrs. Hastings cast aside the paper without even look- 
ing at it, and bent over her husband’s prostrate 
form. 

“Don’t get frightened over yourself, Hiram, dear, 
its only an attack of dyspepsia. I guess it was 
that lobster salad. I told Delia the lobster did not 
look quite fresh. ” 

“Oh, Angy, Angy.” 

“This is no time to wail, Hiram,” says Rebecca, 
“I’ve just rung up Peter to hitch up Mary Ann to 
take you to find out the full particulars, for you 
might just as well find out the worst first as last. ” 

“Worst,” says Angy. “Worst of what?” 

“Oh, Angy, Angy, let me go.” 

“Here’s your hat, Hiram,” continued Rebecca 
heroically, “and here’s my smelling salts. Take a 


14 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


good whiff, if you want to listen to me, just before 
you step into the telegraph office. ’’ 

“Telegraph office. You’ll find you haven’t lost 
anything, Hiram dear,” his wife called after him, 
and fleet Mary Ann sped down the driveway apace. 

And shall we follow his shaking hand as he pens 
the dispatch? 

“ ‘When did Ruby Hastings leave Wellesley? 
When did she start West?’ ” and the click, click of 
the operator ticked away as he waited, and his face 
was grave and sallow. His eyes, though small, set 
well with his features but were full of anxiety. 
His long, thin fingers beat a nervous tattoo, and 
as the minutes came and went he hitched nervously 
in his chair. 

“Sir,” said the operator, turning toward the 
distressed countenance of Hiram Hastings, “the 
wires are utterly useless beyond a certain point. 
One of the worst blizzards in fifty years is raging in the 
East. I can find out nothing for you and I am very 
sorry, sir, ” he continued, as Hiram gave a convulsive 
cough. “I am afraid tomorrow the system will be 
tied up also. Wind blowing fifty miles an hour — 
traffic practically at a stand-still. ” 

“Ah, me!” said Hiram, “Wire at my expense. 
Use every known means to give me my desired 
information and ’phone the result, ” said Mr. Hast- 
ings with bowed head and knotted brow. 

“IwiU, sir.” 

What a greeting on his return. Rebecca Ann 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


15 


stood by the porch, her face drawn and pinched, 
her eyes steadily fixed on his leaden visage. 

“Speak out, Hiram, what is it?” she said, stepping 
close. “I have kept all papers away from Angy, so 
speak low. ” 

“No news is good news, Rebecca. There is a 
furious bhzzard raging in the East. Wire communi- 
cation cut off. ” 

“Well there,” says Rebecca, “cheer up, Hiram. 
There’s never a day so dismal but what a rift in the 
clouds appears. Where there’s suspense, there’shope !” 

“Oh, Hiram!” says his wife, pufling from her over- 
exertion “when did you get back? I’ve watched 
and watched excepting when I stepped in to take a 
look at my new bonnet. It really is a beauty and 
I look so young in it, Hiram! You found you didn’t 
lose anything, didn’t you, dear? ” 

“Yes, Angy, my stocks and bonds are all right,” 
and he heaved a long-drawn sigh. 

“You should not hurry so, Hiram, it makes you 
look pale. The thought that Ruby will be here so 
soon makes me so happy. Sit down, Hiram, and I 
will crochet a little. I ought to buy Ruby’s Christ- 
mas present but I can’t seem to think what to get; 
but there’s time enough, Hiram, isn’t there?” and 
how little she knew of his suffering, as hour after 
hour passed. 

It was late Wednesday when Rebecca Ann appeared 
at the telegraph oflSce. Her face was firm and 
decided, and full of anxiety. 


16 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


“ Message, madam, for Hiram Hastings. ” 

Rebecca took it, and read: “Miss Hastings left 
supposedly on ill fated train, car 8, Drawing Room 
A.” 

She stood sphinx-like for a moment when another 
message was handed to her. 

“Porter of car No. 8 found and interviewed. 
Drawing room not occupied. ” 

Consternation followed her frenzied thought, when 
the third dispatch was passed to her. 

“I am safe and leave Thursday, Dec. 1st, at 5 
o’clock for California. Ruby Hastings.” 

She staggered to a chair overjoyed, but Rebecca 
was not one of the fainting sort. Oh, no, she must 
hasten home to brother Hiram with the exultant 
news, keeping the first responses deep down in her 
reticule, and with her joy, she forgets her sorrow. 


Ill 


A ll aboard” cried the official. 

As we scan the faces of the passen- 
gers, Ruby Hastings, with glowing 
cheek and laughing eye, is passed 
nimbly to the limited for New York by the porter. 
Her heart is full of joy — that at last she is on her 
way. 

The storm havoc has passed, like a tidal wave. 
It is Thursday, the first of December. The train in 
one mad rush dashes along past city and town, only 
stopping when the guiding engineer curbs its will. 
Then comes the transfer in New York. Then a 
night on the train. After a short delay in Washing- 
ton, morning finds the train gliding along past cotton 
sticks and red soil, past the weather-beaten homes 
in this land of the freed. 

What a rest with its wondrous simplicity that 
challenges the grandest canyons and caverns ! The 
wildest river or most turbulent sea with all the 
conflict of thought, like the “Pastoral Symphony,” 
of Beethoven, it holds us spell-bound. 

Speed away, my noble steed. Stay not thy speed 
till all green things cry out a joyous welcome ’neath 
the blue sky of New Orleans. This the Appian 
17 


18 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


Way of peace and plenty, where sunny smiles from 
leaf and bower greet you by the way. 

Reach out and grasp the magnitude of the wel- 
coming Mississippi, whose mighty arm opens wide 
the way to the Gulf of Mexico. 

Crossing this, the Father of Waters, in a flat-boat 
is a novel venture and who can but say grand, 
majestic, mighty. Unchallenged by the Abyssinian 
Nile, unrivalled by the far famed Rhine, this veteran 
to guard the destines of mankind untramelled by 
the hand of time. 

Triumphant, exultant, with a will we hail this 
mighty chieftain, and send up a royal cheer, that 
shall be caught through the length and breadth of 
its ways. 

Then looking from the car windows just in time 
to see the native-born toilers of the soil on the 
famous sugar-bowl tract; men and women alike, in 
their native and picturesque costumes, cutting the 
tall and juicy stalks, with one sweep of their machete. 

Here, a group with upturned faces looking at the 
passing train* 

Coming up the straight and even paths, are the 
high mule teams, half loaded for the train in waiting 
away off in the distance. 

Like specks on the horizon are the humble homes. 

Across the Pecos river, the train creeps over a 
trestle bridge with granite walls on either side 
standing for the binding seal of God *s power, leaving 
a lasting thought to run with the river between. 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


19 


Past the Gila Bend, famous for the gila monsters 
and giant cacti of the plain, the train sped on. 

Then a halt is made at Yuma, a border town into 
California. 

See the Indians with coarse faces, alike coarse 
hair, straight and black as the raven’s wing. 

Look at their beads of varied hues strung and 
hung on their arms, in harmony and discord with 
their own dress of varied hues. 

Look on Mt. San Bernardino, a never-to-be 
forgotten view. On awakening, your first view of 
orange groves and palms, an unbroken panorama of 
luxuriant vegetation, ’mid the sweet scent of nature’s 
charms from now on speeding to the land of unending 
blooms. 

Stilled not their petals of beauty by the biting 
frost of eastern clime, they burst forth afresh in 
redoubled beauty as the hours pass. 


IV 


S HALL I describe the scene at Santa Barbara 
station on that evening of Dec. 6, 1898. As I 
write the dashing pair of greys driven by 
Peter, sweeps up to the curb, and Hiram and 
Rebecca alight. The shrill whistle of the approaching 
train rings in their ears. The horses dance and 
wheel, and Peter holds tight at the ribbons. 

Nearer and nearer comes the ponderous mass of 
steel, until finally, the snort, snort of escaping steam 
ends the suspense, and Hiram in a second more, has 
Ruby in his arms, Rebecca looking on. 

“Well, I declare, Hiram, what fools some folks 
are, now let me make a fool of myself. How are 
you. Ruby?” 

“Oh, I am so glad to be home again, Aunt Rebec- 
ca. Now let’s hurry to see mamma,” and Peter 
touched his hat in salute, and off went Jupiter and 
Juno, dancing up and down, then spurting ahead 
under Peter’s manoeuvring guidance, keeping a 
steady even trot, until the ascent began. 

“Martha’s daughter, Suky Rocks, has come to 
stop with us, Ruby. I want you to be firm friends. ” 
“All right, Dad, I shall do my part. What is she 
like?” 


20 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


21 


“A person of mean stature, thin face, brown hair 
and dark complexion, naturally dejected after her 
bereavement, a little peevish and discontented, and 
the misfortune to have a hitch in her gait. ” 

“Oh, what a pity. Dad. I shall do my real best 
to make her forget her misfortunes. ” 

“That’s you, out and out. Ruby.” 

“Oh, what lovely roses. Aunt Rebecca, and the 
acacia, how beautiful it looks and the pepper trees, 
and poinsetta and there’s Ma — and is that cousin 
Suky.^^ There ’s Delia. ” 

A moment later Mrs. Hastings held her darling 
at arm’s length, then pressed her to her, all unmindful 
of the awkward place she was putting Ruby in. 

Suky was about turning to make a hasty retreat 
into the sitting room, when Ruby freeing herself 
went forward with a bound and nodding a happy 
welcome to Delia, she took both Suky’s hands in 
hers, looked straight into her dark eyes a minute, 
then kissed her fondly. 

“We’ll have great times. Cousin Suky, while I’m 
home. What do you like best, horseback riding, 
driving, or teas?” 

“Come right in and sit down here,” called Rebec- 
ca, “and by-and-by, when your rested we’ll hear 
about the storm and your experiences. ” 

“It was so funny. Dad, a voice told me to stay on 
Beacon Hill. ” And Suky sat quiet without a word, 
Rebecca Ann noticed. 

“Believe me. Dad, this was all that saved my 


22 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


life for my ticket was bought, my drawing-room 
engaged.’’ 

“I am glad, Ruby, you had sense enough to stay 
undercover somewhere,” said Rebecca sitting forward 
in her chair so’s to catch every word. 

“Oh, Hiram — ” called his wife, “just open the 
door, won’t you and let out Pansy, that’s a dear. I 
must get a new ribbon for her collar, the very next 
time I go to town, ” 

Suky cast a look of reproach towards Hiram’s 
wife, not lost to Rebecca. “Not much love lost 
between the two, I guess, ” she sohloquized. 

“It was really a dreadful storm. One of the 
Portland boats was lost, with all on board. I just 
read the time away. That was really all that was 
left to do.” 

Suky ’s face had another sinister smile, only 
noticed by the keen eyes of Rebecca Ann. 

“Now, Cousin Suky,” said Ruby, turning toward 
her, “we’ll pluck the roses for tea, and plan tomor- 
row ’s drive. ” 


V 


H iram, here’s a letter from a law firm 
in the northwest, ” said Rebecca Ann, 
adjusting her spectacles. “Lord and 
Norcross, isn’t it? You see.” 

Hiram took the long envelope, scanned it narrowly 
and with the letter he unfolded a long document. 

“ It ’s somebody ’s will, Hiram. ” 

“Brother William, Rebecca, has passed away. 
It’s years since we’ve heard from him, poor fellow.” 

“Let me see it, Hiram.” — The door opened 
cautiously but Rebecca was all engrossed with her 
reading. 

“ ‘1st. I give and bequeath to my brother, 
Hiram Hastings, of Montecito, California,’ ” she 
read aloud, “ ‘ the sum of $25,000 . 00. 

“ ‘2nd. I give and bequeath to my sister, 
Rebecca Ann Hastings, the sum of $25,000 . 00. 

“ ‘3rd. I give and bequeath to Suky Rocks, 
daughter of my deceased sister, Martha Rocks, the 
sum of $5,000.00. ’ ” — the door creaked. 

“ ‘4th. I give and bequeath to my brother Hiram’s 
wife, Angenette Hastings, the sum of $10,000.00. 

“ ‘5th. I give and bequeath to Ruby Hastings, 
only child of my brother, Hiram Hastings, the rest 
23 


24 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


and residue of my estate whether real, personal or 
mixed, wherever found. 

“ ‘6th. My brother, Hiram Hastings of Montecito, 
Cal., I appoint the sole executor of this, my last will 
and testament, without surety or bonds, the said 
executor being allowed the full two years to adjust 
my affairs. If during that time any of the above 
beneficiaries should die, his or her bequest is to be 
equally divided among the remaining beneficiaries.’ 

“That means, Hiram, that Ruby’s to be an 
heiress and her only safety against titled dukes and 
such rubbish is in keeping the whole thing to our- 
selves and that’s a hard thing to do with Angy’s 
easy-going ways. No one need know the exact 
figures. You’re the sole executor. Let me see it a 
minute? Yes. I think, Hiram,” says Rebecca, 
lowering her voice to a whisper, “between you and 
me, that Suky is a trifle jealous of our Ruby al- 
ready. ” 

“Nonsense, Rebecca, no one could be jealous of 
Ruby.” 

“Time will tell, Hiram, but whatever you do 
don’t let Delia get an inkling of what’s up. I’ve 
heard people ‘suppose such and such things should 
happen what would take place,’ and the like. The 
golden rule is a good thing to possess but, Hiram, it 
don’t pay to expose it to the weather. It’s apt to 
turn. ” 

“Oh, what have you there, Hiram?” calls his wife. 

“Brother William has passed away, Angy.” 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


25 


“Brother William, oh dear! dear! dear! What 
ailed him? Give me your smelling salts, Rebecca, 
quick. Get the doctor, Hiram. Oh! oh! oh!” she 
gasped. “What is that long document, Hiram?” 

“His will, dear. Do you feel better?” 

“Yes, a little. Let me lay my head on your 
shoulder while you read it. Did he leave us any- 
thing?” 

“Yes, Angy, a little.” 

“Well, that’s better than nothing.” 

“ Will you promise, Angy, not to speak of it out- 
side?” 

“Oh, yes, Hiram, if you don’t want me to, but 
wouldn’t it help Ruby’s prospects a little to let a 
little information accidentally drop down to the 
church?” 

“ Oh, no, dear, there ’s not enough for that. There 
is the dinner gong now, dear. Do you feel like 
going to the table or shall I have Delia serve your 
food here?” 

“I guess I better have it here, dear, but Hiram, 
perhaps I could come, ” she called after him, but he 
didn ’t hear her and was surprised upon entering the 
dining-room to find her there before him talking 
busily with Ruby. 

“Where’s Aunt Rebecca and Cousin Suky, Dad? 
I ’ve been writing to Evelyn and Claude, my chums, 
and haven’t laid eyes on them for two hours.” 

“Rebecca was in the sitting room a moment ago, 
I think she went to take care of some mail matter 


26 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


for me. Angy, haven’t you told Ruby about your ill 
turn? ” 

“No, Hiram, dear, I was so full of the death of 
Brother Wilham and his will. ” 

“Sh! sh!” says Rebecca hurrying in, her finger 
pressed convulsively on her lips for silence, and 
Angy’s observing glance made her shiver for her 
first offence, for Deha, at that moment, had thrust 
her head through the door, her large full eyes fixed 
well upon the offender. 

“Where can Suky be, ” asked Ruby full of anxiety. 

“She may have ventured too close to the edge of 
some ridge and fallen. I don’t feel hungry. Dad. 
Hadn’t I better look for her?” 

“Well, if you like. She is a poor unfortunate. ” 

“Well, if ever I would let her do that, Hiram, 
leave her dinner and hunt for that — ” but Ruby was 
off and Rebecca left the table and stalked majestically 
out of the dining room opening the door quickly into 
the hall, she came against an obstacle but not 
appearing to notice what it was she made for her 
room without saying a word, but when well into it 
and her door closed behind her we readily can see 
her state of mind. “What did I tell Hiram about 
that girl. Men are blinder than bats, and Angy — 
her tongue will never stop wagging on forbidden 
subjects. 

“She’s pliable and when she see’s she ought not to 
do anything, she tries not to, but, alas! she’s so 
imaginative, so irresolute but on the whole, I t hink 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


27 


a lot of her and Ruby — she just adores her mother 
and that’s the way it should be. But what is Suky 
so sly about. It won’t ever do for me to tell what 
I saw to Hiram. He’ll think I am jealous of the 
minx. ” 

“Don’t speak of Brother William’s will, Angy, will 
you?” Hiram pleaded when he was alone with her. 
“Rebecca and I both agree it’s best to keep the 
subject very quiet.” 

“I told Ruby, Hiram, and if you hadn’t come 
just as you did she would have burst out crying. 
That’s why she couldn’t eat any dinner. She said 
she remembered him well when we wa’n’t so well 
off. How nice he was to her and the kind heart he 
expressed towards her. When her doll became 
disabled and her play-things went astray he always 
helped her find them and inasmuch as he had to do 
with was very, very nice to her. I didn’t say any- 
thing about the will to her, Hiram,” she ran on, 
“because she was so broken up. ” 

“Dearie, you are so full of the news, but please don’t 
let the help hear, ” and in bounced Delia, her awkward 
figure fiouncing around as if her feelings had been 
terribly hurt about something. 

“ Will I serve Miss Rebecca ’s soup. Miss Hastings? ” 

“I don’t know, I really don’t. Don’t bother me. 
I can’t stand care. I never could. Carry it up to 
her, Delia. Would it not be a good idea, Hiram?” 

“But where can Ruby have gone not to be back? 
I’m afraid something has happened.” 


28 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


“Do you like Suky, Hiram, as well as you thought 
you should?’’ 

“Why, yes; she’s a nice kind of a girl, dear. Not 
like Ruby. We can’t expect that. She’s a gem 
set in a wondrous crown of beauty. ” 

“Well, I guess that’s it, Hiram. It’s unfortunate 
to have to have her right in the home. Couldn’t 
you arrange to have her stay somewhere else?” 

The door opened and in came Suky seemingly 
back from a walk, her cheeks a little rosy. 

“Did you see Ruby? She’s gone looking for you, 
Suky.” 

“No. Well, I want my dinner. I am hungry,” 
she said slinging her hat to the chair by the door. 
“I don’t know why she should take that trouble, 
just to have me run after her. ” 

“You are tired, Suky,” says Hiram. “How far 
did you go?” 

“ I went, oh dear me ! not far but the stubbles tripped 
me up and my hip is so lame by spells. I ought to 
have let Ruby rub me this morning when she offered. 
I don’t suppose she will offer again.” 

“Shall I bring in your soup. Miss?” spoke 
Delia, spitefully. “Rebecca don’t want hers. You 
can have that. It’s all warm. ” 

“Was there any mail. Uncle Hiram?” 

“Yes, Brother William is dead.” 

Delia put her head to one side to catch every 
word. 

“My Uncle William of the northwest?” 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


29 


“Yes/’ 

“He left a will, Suky,” says Angy, wiping her 
mouth without looking up, “but Hiram says the 
property is small, but every little will help. ” 

“Angy, dear,” speaks Hiram, “let Suky rest. 
She’s feeling bad about the news. The will will be 
discussed later. ” 

“O yes, Hiram, I will.” 

But Delia had vent for her wrath in not being 
taken into the family secrets. “ Oi ’ll till sum one and 
till thim not to till, that’s what Oi’ll bae doin, ” she 
said, shaking her large head meaningly. “There’s 
toime enuf to deliberate, but Oi most not wait too 
long. They think Oi don’t know anything so can’t 
till anything, but Rebecca Ann will see. Oi ’ll presint 
a good outside, saying Oi did it to hilp Ruby ’s pros- 
pects, if Oi ’m found out in it. Oi love the dear girl 
so, ” etc., and she rubbed her nose vigorously. “It ’s 
aisy enuf to lay it to sum one else. If it gates out, I’ve 
accomplished mae purpose. Miss Rebecca, don’t 
hould a mortgage on mae or mae tongue, ” 

‘ ‘ Ting-a-ling-ding. 

“Who’s that, Oi wonder.^” and Delia hurried for 
the door. 

“Is Miss Ruby Hastings within?” 

“I can’t say, sir, but you stip in the music room a 
minute while Oi find out. The rist are at dinner. 
Dr. Klingwinter, it is.” 

“ Miss Rebecca telephoned for me for Miss Ruby, 
Delia. She is ill.” 


30 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


“Oh, Oi didn’t know that. Doctor. Step roight 
this way with me. ” 

“Oi showed the doctor right up, Miss Rebecca,” 
she said, opening the door of Ruby ’s room, without 
any preliminaries. “She’s comfortable sick Oi 
guess,” whispered Delia, “just a little set up over 
some property she’s to inherit” and off went Delia 
to answer the table call. 

“Did any one come in?” 

“Yes, the doctor, Mam, for Miss Ruby. Miss 
Rebecca sent for him. ” 

“Suky, won ’t you run up to see what the matter is, ” 
said Mrs. Hastings. “Bring the desert now, Delia.” 

“There must be some mistake, Delia. Ruby 
went out.” 

“No, sir, Mr. Hastings. Oi just saw her with 
mae own eyes. ” 

“I don’t care for pudding, Angy. I will step 
upstairs a moment. Keep right on, Angy, and 
don’t worry. I shall be right back. ” 

“He’s a clever looking man, Oi declare,” says 
Delia after the doctor had come himself to the 
kitchen for hot water. “What a harmless kind of a 
soul. He is just flishy enough to be chubby and 
edicated enuf to be studious looking, just the dark 
complexion that will go good with Ruby’s hair and 
eyes, — ^just old enough.” 

Suky rushed at that moment into the kitchen. 
“Is that Ruby’s beau, Delia? He is tremendously 
sympathetic for just a professional visit. ” 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


31 


“Don’t go upsetting anything, Suky! There’s 
men enuf! Oi balave, upon mae word, you are 
struck with him,” and the table gong rang again, 
leaving Delia with gloomy forebodings of the duplici- 
ty of that girl. 

“She shan’t upset things. Oi know what it is to 
get left,” and she crooned her neck toward the glass 
knowingly. “Once Oi could have seen such things, 
but Oi can’t now,” and she made it her way to 
accidentally happen in the hall when the doctor 
left. 

“Doctor, if there ever was a good girl, it’s Ruby 
Hastings, sir. Is sha much sick? You tind roight 
out, won’t you, fur her mither ain’t much thought 
about her, an’ Suky she loses her head aisy.” 


VI 


R ebecca sitting beside Ruby is busily 
talking. “You’re left a number of hundred 
thousand dollars by your Uncle William, ” 
she said methodically, “and I want to 
warn you against fortune hunters andSuky. ” 
“Suky! Why, Aunt Rebecca. Poor, unfortu- 
nate, harmless, afflicted Suky.” 

Dinner being over, Angy went to the garden to 
pick some roses for Ruby, but seeing Pansy down 
the path went to find out what she was barking 
about. 

“I’m so sorry for you, Mrs. Hastings, in your 
bereavement. Pansy won’t let me past him.” 
“Come right here. Pansy, there’s a dear.” 

“Did your brother die sudden.^” 

“My brother! Why, yes, he did. But how did 
you hear of my great loss? I can’t speak of it, Mrs. 
Harmon,” cried Angy, putting her handkerchief 
over her eyes with both her hands. “He was such a 
nice man. ” 

“Did he leave much property, Mrs. Hastings? 
I heard he didn’t from one source and from another 
I heard Ruby was made very wealthy. ” 

“Hiram told me not to know, if any one asked, 
32 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


33 


but it wan’t but a small sum any way. There’s no 
harm I can see in telling that much to you. You 
won’t speak of it.” 

“No, I won’t, Mrs. Hastings. Did he leave a 
will or is the law to take its course?” 

“Oh, I don’t know. But ’pears to me Hiram did 
have a document in his hand when I came to. I 
won’t be certaifa. I came near fainting when I first 
heard the news. Ruby’s sick and had the doctor. 
I came out to pick her some roses.” 

“Ruby sick. What’s the matter of her? I 
heard her cousin was a spiteful thing. She isn’t, is 
she?” 

“She isn’t like Ruby, Mrs. Harmon. Hiram 
says that was what made the difference.” 

“What doctor do you have to Ruby?” 

“Dr. Klingwinter.” 

“Oh, he is the catch of Montecito. I heard Ruby 
was a perfect beauty when she stepped off the train 
at Santa Barbara. One of the swells over to the 
Potter inquired her out.” 

“Who, Mrs. Harmon?” 

“His name was, — well there, it’s gone from me. 
I never could remember names, or faces or dates foi 
that matter. The only thing I can remember is 
church work. I haven’t any use for gossip so I 
think trying to forget things I hear sort of stunts 
my memory. There was a young fellow on the 
same train with her that made all manner of in- 
quiries about her after she left the station with her 


34 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


father and Aunt Rebecca. He took the Arlington 
Hotel carriage. Some of the sports say they met 
such a person on a fiery charger headed for Monteci- 
to.” 

“Oh, I must tell Hiram. Won’t you come in?” 

“No, I just run up to see how you all were. I’ll 
be up again in a day or so. Good-by, good-by. ” 

“Hiram, Hiram, come quick. Where are you?” 

“Oh, Angy, Angy, what is the matter?” 

“Oh, dear, dear, dear, our Ruby is hunted by a 
man who came in the train. Mrs. Harmon came up 
to hear if what she heard was true. It’s all out 
about the will. I told her there wasn’t much and 
then she told me about the man. I’m all out of 
breath. ” 

“Sit down, wifey.” 

“And she said some swell over to the Potter was 
inquiring her out, and — but I’m so nerved up I 
can’t think — but I remembered, Hiram, not to know 
much about business things. I did do better, didn ’t 
I, dear? Where’s Suky? Don’t let her hear, but 
she said the doctor is more of a catch than I supposed. 
You better ’phone him to come often and watch 
over our Ruby. ” 

“Would you really like her to marry him?” 

“Why, yes, Hiram. Wouldn’t you, if he’s good? 
She’ll have plenty of money. There’s some one 
coming now. I’ll see who it is!” 

“Good afternoon, Mrs. Hastings. Is Rebecca 
Ann at home?” 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


35 


“Yes, Mrs. Thorndike. Suky just run and tell 
her, that ’s a dear. ” 

“Where had Suky been,’’ thought Angy, but it 
didn ’t matter and back she went to her crochet. 


VII 


O I was waitching fer yer, doctor — go roight 
up. You ’ll foind Miss Rebecca with her, ” 
says Delia. 

“Good afternoon, Miss Ruby. The 
maid told me to come right up. ” 

“Oh, doctor, my head does ache so bad. Aunt 
Rebecca has just been called down stairs by a 
visitor. ” 

“Does it ache all over?” he said, taking her 
pulse. 

“No, doctor, just here in my forehead.” 

“It is too bad for such a beautiful girl as you are 
to be sick. ” 

The portieres rustled and a glaring eye caught the 
next scene. 

“Miss Ruby, I hear you have a great many 
admirers. Is there any place in your heart for me?” 

“No,” came from the muffled depths of some- 
where but all unheeded the doctor went on. 

“Such a beautiful face you have. Many are the 
kind acts of yours that have been told me by my 
patients. ” 

He heeded not the approaching footsteps. 

Neither had he heard the welcoming by Mrs. 
36 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


37 


Hastings of a new caller or her hospitable, “go right 
up. She’s alone. Rebecca has a caller.” 

And what did Mrs. Croby see! The doctor 
bending over her Ruby, with tears falling from his 
eyes and in this predicament, Rebecca after ushering 
out her caller ascends the stairs finding Mrs. Croby 
motioning for silence on the landing. 

What an expression of disgust was on Rebecca’s 
face as she mounted the stairs. 

Mrs. Croby declared afterwards she never could 
forget it. 

“Believe me,” says the doctor, in a whisper, “you 
have my greatest regard. ” 

Mrs. Croby hustled noiselessly off down stairs 
and Rebecca went to her own room and closed the 
door. 

“I never was so angered in my life. Delia ought 
to be ashamed of her very self telephoning Mrs. 
Gray’s servant girl all our affairs, and telling her 
not to tell. The whole thing is out but how did the 
traitoress find out.^ After the years she has been 
here what ingratitude to betray her mistress in this 
way. Angy is to blame. There’s not a particle of 
discipline in the house. She lets everything slide. 
I can’t train Delia. It isn’t my place and besides 
Hiram would hate me if I should say one word 
against ‘ wifey . ’ I think myself it is better to change 
help often. She ’s been here since Ruby was a baby. ” 

“Oi hopes ye will propose soon,” says Delia in a 
whisper seeing the doctor out. “Yer niver can 


38 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


make eny moistake,” and Dr. Klingwinter passed 
out, after hearing in broken sentences about her 
other suitors. 

“There, Oi had to tell. The loikes of mae sins to 
bae forgiven. Mae conscience smoites mae ivery 
toime Oi looks in tha glass but mae tongue I always 
said would bae the death of mae. If Miss Gray’s 
Susie should tell I’d bae fur gitting mae walkin 
papers from Miss Rebecca if ’twant fer Miss Hast- 
ings. She niver could sae any raeson fur mae bein’ 
dismissed and of course Mr. Hastings does exactly 
as wifey wants him to in everything. Such foolish 
things that woman has done in the years Oi have 
been here, and niver a reproachful word have Oi 
heard from her Hiram’s lips. That was a rael loive 
match. I thoink, perhaps Oi moight make meself 
over agin if Oi could bae petted and deared a little. 
Oh, dear,” she sighed. “Mae teeth are agin mae, 
mae eyes, mae gait, and mae form, but some one 
moight bae interested if they only knew what a 
good cook Oi am. Oi should bae fur moving out 
into company if Oi want a good husband. Sum- 
times Oi think Peter loikes me and thin agin he 
don’t take no notice of mae. Oi kin readily sae 
how tha girls catch their husbands but how thay 
kape thim is the mystery. ” 

A clatter of hoofs up the drive arrests her thoughts. 
“Who kin that bae,” and she rushed to answer the 
bell. 


VIII 



OES Mr. Hiram Hastings live here?” was 
the inquiry of a short, well set stranger 
before her. 

“ He does, sir. Stip in and Oi bae fur 


callin him. ” 

The snort of the restless steed sounded in the 
walk. 

“Champ, champ,” went the bits. “Stamp, 
stamp,” was the rejoining accompaniment. Jack 
Templeton went to the window and called a decisive, 
“Be still there.” Then he sat down again, giving 
his dark hair a nervous brush with his hand and his 
dark eyes flashed. 

“Mr. Templeton,” says Mr. Hastings, looking at 
the card in his hand for verification. 

“ Mr. Hastings, ” came the rejoinder. 

“Be seated, sir.” 

“The nature of my call, for a perfect stranger to 
you no doubt will seem very out of place, but how- 
beit, I will proceed. I am an ardent admirer of 
your daughter. ” 

“I see,” says Hiram, genially. “I can’t blame 
you in the least for that. When and where did you 
first meet her?” 


39 


40 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


“Oh, well,” said Jack, striking an attitude, and 
flashing his fascinating dark eyes effectually upon 
Mr. Hastings, he went on, “it was this way, Mr. 
Hastings to be truthful, I followed her across country. 
Love at first sight, like one of the story books has it . 
I can’t just remember,” and he laughed a ringing 
laugh. “I’m a medical student. I sing tenor also 
in church. My brother is settled in the middle 
west — married well — Simon McGrath’s daughter. 
Of course it goes without saying who he is. When 
not with my books, I sing at weddings and so on. 
In fact do whatever fancy calls. ” 

'“I see,” says Hiram. “Not exactly an all round 
sport but like all studious and gifted people feel the 
need of a letup now and then. ” 

“That’s just it, Mr. Hastings, exactly. What a 
delightful painting could be made from this vista of 
yours. I was noticing it as I came up. Seeing the 
sunset over the mountains must be grand. Is your 
daughter home?” 

“She is just recovering from her over-fatigue 
getting here, Mr. Templeton. She is home, but 
not able to be about today. ” 

“Oh, I see, I am very sorry. Could I call again,” 
he said, rising, hat in hand. 

“Why, yes,” says Mr. Hastings admiring the 
persistency of the youth. 

“Thank you,” and vaulting into the saddle he 
put the spurs to his steed and off went rider and 
horse as if a thousand demons were at his heels and 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


41 


he, the poor victim, keeping just out of their 
reach. 

“What was that I wonder,” Angy soliloquised, 
rubbing her eyes. “Well never mind, my crochet’s 
on the floor. I had dropped off to sleep. I wonder 
if Mrs. Croby is here yet. It’s as good as a dose of 
nervine to hear her cheerful voice. Oh, ho hum, ” 
and she started for the stairs. 

“Oh, these stairs, how they wind me. Hiram will 
have to put in an elevator. ” 

“Oh! That’s you, Mrs. Hastings,” and Mrs. 
Croby came running forward to see if she couldn’t 
be of some assistance. 

“Those stairs, Mrs. Croby. I came up to have 
you cheer me up. ” 

“Well, flrst of all, Mrs. Hastings, I will tell you 
my experience since I have been here. Don’t let it 
frighten you for ’twas only an optical delusion. I 
was sitting here with Ruby and I thought the 
portiere moved. I went to look back of it and I 
imagined I felt something crawling back of my 
hands. I nearly fainted, it was so real. Then 
further, I heard the door click back of it and as 
soon as I could pluck up courage I opened the 
portiere, then the door. Then I looked all around 
and there was nothing in sight. ” 

“What could it be.^ Oh, Mrs. Croby, the house 
can’t be haunted, can it? Oh, Hiram! where is he. 
Oh, dear, dear, dear me. Where’s Rebecca’s 
smelling salts?” 


42 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


“Rebecca,” called Mrs. Croby, “Rebecca Ann.” 

“Did any one speak,” came the satirical voice 
from the kitchen. “If Mrs. Hastings is there I 
wish she would please step down here. I’m beside 
myself, I am so angered by Delia. Saucy, saucy.” 

Mrs. Hastings jumped to her feet, seemingly as 
well as usual. 

“Was that Rebecca? What is the matter, sister? ’ ’ 

“Matter enough, Angenette! I’ve faced Delia 
with telling how Ruby was left half a million by her 
uncle and she denies it. She’s the only one that 
knew it. Come down here, Mrs. Croby.” 

“Oi niver told it, m’am. I niver knew just how 
much until Miss Rebecca, with her own leeps told 
mae, there now. Miss Rebecca, I’ve told you the 
truth before witness, mum. I told what eny one 
moight hear but niver tha amount. ” 

“She’s telling the truth, Rebecca,” said Mrs. 
Croby. “I think it without doubt came from some 
other source. ” 

“What other source is there?” answered Rebecca 
tartly, her eyes snapping and her hands moving 
convulsively. 


IX 


W HAT’S all this about?” said Mr. 

Hastings, running up the stairs like 
a school boy. “ I ’ve got some very 
particular news to tell Ruby. I 
want you all to rally around and listen. I’ve had a 
swell caller. He came on horseback, Ruby — a real 
swell, I was quite taken with him. ” 

“Oh, dear, dear,” cried Angy hysterically, “he’s 

hypnotized him, it was the . Give me the 

smelling salts, Rebecca. Oh, oh, oh. It was the 
man that’s haunted Ruby on the train, that Mrs. 
Harmon told me about. Oh dear, dear, dear.” 

“Angy that’s a dear. Quiet yourself — there, 
there. ” 

“What was his name. Dad?” 

“Jack Templeton, my dear. I quite liked his 
looks. He ’s a dandy. ” 

“What did I just tell you, only this morning, 
that I was willing for the doctor for Ruby, Hiram, 
and you quite agreed then. Oh, Hiram. I never 
knew you to be so vaccilating all my married life.” 

“Oh, Angy, just let me tell you about him. His 
eyes were wondrous magnetic. He’s a singer and 
from a fine family. He asked to call again and I 
43 


44 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


thought it no possible harm. Invite in some 
young folks, Ruby, informally on account of our 
mourning, and let him sing and it will cheer up Suky. 
Where does she keep herself, these days that you are 
sick?” 

“I don’t know, Hiram,” says Rebecca, not wait- 
ing for Ruby to reply. “A big pity she isn ’t attrac- 
tive enough to captivate some one of these fellows 
that are coming around. ” 

“Why, Aunt Rebecca,” cried Ruby, “the dear 
girl has been in bed most of these days, her hip is 
very bad. I had the doctor go in to see her yester- 
day.” 

“Well, I never. ’Twixt the hangers on and the 
hired help and sister, nobody can say a word.” 

“Let me tell you Ruby, the fellow was a dandy — 
had one of those don’t care ways with him that 
gains favor everywhere. You just see him, probably 
he will be around again in a day or so. ” 

“Mr. Hastings,” says Mrs. Croby, “We’ve been 
planning a little Christmas surprise for the children. ” 

“All right, and that leaves me with the informal 
party to plan, eh? We couldn’t have the young 
folks disappointed, could we, Angy?” 

“Oh, Hiram dear, how could you, when the time 
is so precious, let her go? Oh dear, dear!” 

“ There ’s business enough ahead for me, wifey . I ’ll 
take you along. ” 

“Oh! oh! — what shall I do when she goes back, 
Hiram?” 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


45 


“There! there, Angy.” 

“ If I go with you, Hiram, everybody will be asking 
into Ruby’s affairs.” 

“ Let me tell you, Mrs. Hastings, ” said Mrs. Croby, 
coming to the rescue. “You’ll have your hands 
full to take care of your husband, I can see that. ” 

“Why, Mrs. Croby!” 

And the scribe passes the intervening hours into 
the past with a nonchalant air, so journey with Ruby 
and Mrs. Croby along the foothills of the mesa 
grand without regret, back to childhood’s happy 
days in the land of Yanonalit of Indian fame, of 
Nevfe and Galvez. 

I can almost see the Spanish soldiers decked in 
red, yellow and gold lace and the Presidio of olden 
days far down by the bay. 

“Well, I declare,” says Ezra Stark, “if this ain’t 
Ruby Hastings. You got her, didn’t you, Martha. 
How be you?” 

“Don’t let the nag start for I’m a little older than 
I was. ” 

“She ain’t changed a mite, has she, Martha? 
I heard tell about your Uncle William’s death, and 
the property he left you. Not a bit stuck up, is she? 
Drive along to the house, Judy is to home. I kin 
remember William in his young days, how he uster 
strut around with his hands in his pockets, and 
say he was going to be a miner and hunt gold. 
Here we are. Judy! Judy! Judy Stark! look 
a-here. She’s making sarce this morning, I ’ll fetch 


46 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


her, — come right in Ruby; and Martha, you hitch 
your hoss to that sapling there. Here she is now!” 

“Well, I do declare. Miss Ruby, how pretty you 
be, and the best on’t is, not a bit set up by your 
bequest. How is Angynette and Hiram, and 
Rebecca Ann.?^ Suky didn ’t come with ye, did she.^^ ” 
“No, poor dear, she didn’t feel equal to it. I 
tried my best to have her, but she said she thought 
she had better not. I am quite worried about her, 
Judy. Her hip pains her all the time. ” 

“There’s been a good many changes round about 
here, Ruby! Judy! afore I forget, run and put up 
two quarts of pea beans for Angynette. Judy has 
been baking them lately with fat and lean corn 
beef, and it makes a clever dish. You tell her, will 
you, it’s just as good as pork. ” 

“Yes, Uncle Ezra,” says Ruby, “I surely will.” 
“Sam Lovejoy has got a pair of twins. Aunt 
Lucinda Stebbins a broken hip. ” 

“Aunt Lucinda! I am so sorry for her. I must 
call on her the very first thing I do. ” 

“Poor Lucinda, I guess she won’t pull out of this, 
the doctor thinks she won’t. Did you tell Ruby 
about the engagement?” cried his wife emerging 
from the kitchen with the beans. 

“No, not yet.” 

“Well, Kysandia Doubae has captured a swell 
over in Miramar. I don’t know what he amounts 
to, more than being able to throw a ball into a hole. 
I don’t know what they call it, but there’s a name 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


47 


for it. That’s harmless enough. I suppose he has 
to have some recreation some way. ” 

“How are the little ones at the corner, Uncle 
Ezra.?” 

“Oh, fair to middling, I guess. Stephen is just 
getting up from the measles, and Hulda, they say 
she’s a whole team — climbs all the trees in the 
neighborhood, loves her books, and goes looking just 
like a tramp young-un. They ain’t apt to care for 
riggin’, when they are so carried away with books. 
Nobody, nor anybody can’t git ahead on her, in 
them. She gits her sisters boots on fur her own in 
the mornin’ and purses up her lips in class time if 
anything goes wrong with her. They try to keep 
her hair tidy with a net, but its off half the time. 
If they ask her where it is, she tells them up a tree 
she guesses. She ’ll turn out to be a great somebody, 
or nothing, so everybody says. ” 

“Mother will so enjoy these beans. Aunt Judy. 
Thank you, very, very much. ” 

“We must go now. Ruby,” said Mrs. Croby, pull- 
ing up the reins. 

“All right, dear. I’ll come around again. Uncle 
Ezra. ” 

“So do! So do! What a gal she’s grown to be 
Judy,” was wafted into Ruby’s ears, as old Sal 
proceeded. 

“How genuine they both are. It’s such a plea- 
sure to meet such natural individuals. Not a 
particle of guile in them. Just see what’s before 


48 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


us, Mrs. Croby,’’ and a bevy of rosy cheeked chil- 
dren seem to spring up like the passion vine pressing 
its scarlet bloom against the horizon as a beautiful 
vista. What a medley of color with the wistaria ’s 
pendent glory. What a sweet picture, with every 
petal of the wondrous pageant twining about her 
heart with the music of a sacred oratorio. 

“It’s Miss Ruby,” cried one of the company, and 
a shout rang out to be caught by the echoing foot- 
hills. 

“We knew you wouldn’t disappoint us,” said 
Clarissa Underwood, leading the welcome. “ Joseph, 
keep still, don’t prattle when you should be quiet. 
Come on, Perley, let’s play she’s the ‘Queen of the 
May,’ boys. ‘Ring around the rosey,’ or let’s sing, 
‘All hail our chief.’ ” 

Ruby’s eyes twinkled with the joyous welcome. 

“You want a kiss, I see,” and she bent down and 
pressed her lips sweetly against the bashful tot’s 
rosy cheek in front of her. 

“I don’t believe I can ride the rest of the way, 
it’s only a step, Mrs. Croby, ” and Josephine Seamore 
caught her by the arm, and Sadie Calispy held her 
hand in mute admiration. 

“You’ll see what I’ll tell teacher,” cried Julian 
Harper, above the din of the voices. “Miss Ruby 
is an all around saint and she’s the sinner. Catch 
her boxing our ears, or making us stay after school 
for bad behavior. ” 

“There, there,” said Ruby, her cheeks aglow^ 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANG Y 


49 


“that’s enough Julian. Don’t talk against your 
teacher.” 

“Well, I don’t care, she — she — she did box my 
ears, only yesterday — there now, it’s out, and I’m 
glad. She flogs us for nothing. You — ^you — you 
won’t tell I told, will you. Miss Ruby.” 

“No dear! if you will promise solemnly never to 
do it again. ” 

“All right. Miss Ruby, I won’t. It’s pleasanter 
to mind and see you smile, than it is to do things 
awry and get lickings, there, so now, isn’t it, Dick.?^” 

“You bet,” came the quick retort. 

“What’ll you bet.?” 

“ I ’ll bet you ’ll have a bat and ball for Christmas. ” 

“I’ll bet he won’t,” says Tony Tattler, “his 
brother said it was to be a pair of boxing gloves, so ’s 
they could do double duty in school and out.” 

“I will just step into Aunt Lucinda’s now, child- 
ren! Goodby.” 

“Good-by,” says a chorus of voices. 

“I’ll be on time for dinner, Mrs. Croby,” and the 
curtain of the window was pushed one side hurriedly. 

“I’m coming right in unannounced. Aunt Lucin- 
da. I’m so glad to see you,” and she pressed a kiss 
on the drawn and wrinkled face. “You are not here 
alone!” 

“Yes, I am, Ruby, Miss Stark, Judy, you know 
who I mean, comes in night and morning, and 
chores around a spell.” 

“I see,” says Ruby. 


50 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


She took in the poverty on every hand, and after 
a plea of not keeping Mrs. Croby waiting dinner, 
off she went to see what should be done. 

She was busily thinking as she walked along, and 
did not notice any one approaching, and was a bit 
startled when a gruff “hollo,” sounded close in her 
ears. 

“I heard you was come to town. Ruby, how be 
ye?” and out came Sam Ranger’s hand in salute. 

Sam was the all around village expressman. 

“ I don ’t see how I missed seein ’ ye, when you left 
the train, ’ness ’twas cause I wa’n’t lookin ’ fer ye. ” 

“Mr. Ranger, you are just the man I want to talk 
with. Come with your team tomorrow at 8 o ’clock, 
to Mrs. Croby ’s.” 

“Yes mam! Miss, sartain;” and off went Ruby 
leaving Sam to go his way. 

“What a clever gal she is! I swan she won’t 
want for beaux. ” 


X 


D 


INNER over, old Sal was hurried by Mrs. 
Croby ’s own hands into the shafts. The 
trio were off. 

First a short halt was made at Syntha 
Martin’s, a maiden of uncertain summers. “Can 
you go at once to Lucinda’s, Miss Martin 

“Why, yes! soon’s I can scratch my few dishes 
together, and put the fire out. Is she worse .f*” 

“No! No! no worse, but Ruby here, wants her to 
have every care. She's going to foot the bills.” 

“All right, Mrs. Croby.” 

Off went Sal upon a steady trot, stopping next at 
Mira Pitcher’s, a widow whom Ruby had learned 
from Mrs. Croby had been reduced in circumstances, 
so that she lived on oatmeal alone to keep the breath 
of life in her. 

“Mrs. Pitcher, can you spare the time to dress 
some dolls for me?’’ 

“Well, I guess I can.” Her face brightened 
perceptibly, as she caught sight of Ruby. 

“How are you, Mira?” called Ruby. 

“ Well, I thank you. I ’ll do anything in my power 
for you. Are Mr. and Mrs. Hastings well. Ruby?” 

“They are quite well, thank you. We are in 
such a hurry. Good-by. ” 


51 


52 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


“The dolls are over to my house,” shouted Mrs. 
Croby. 

“All right!” 

And they hurried along. 

“Pick out some undergarments and blankets, for 
Lucinda, Mrs. Croby, you know best what she will 
like. Give her that, and while you are attending to 
these things, I will step in to Sam Fifield’s and order 
the groceries.” 

“Well, gal alive, where did you rain down from!” 

“I came today, Mr. Fifield. ” 

“Well! well!” 

“I am in such a hurry, I go back day after tomor- 
row. ” 

“That so? Ain T going to make a very long stop ! 
How’s Hiram and Angy?” 

“Quite well, thank you. I want to leave an order 
with you to be delivered by Sam Ranger. ” 

“Well, yes.” He took the list. “Whew! I’ll 
be jiggered, girl. I haint got nothin near all that 
jig a rig. ‘10 bbl. flour, 50 lbs. butter, 10 gal. 
molasses, 12 doz. oranges.’ ” Here he stopped with 
his finger on the place. “This beats all I ever see. 
What are you goin’ to do with all this stuff arter 
you get it?” 

“Oh, Mr. Fifield, that’s telling.” 

“ ‘25 lbs. of nuts.’ Mixed nuts, is that. Ruby?” 

“Yes.” 

‘ 15 lbs. raisins. ’ Whew! ‘100 lbs. sugar, 50 lbs. 
crackers.’ Well, I declare. Miss Ruby. This’ll 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


53 


put me clean on my feet ag’in and I’ll dance the 
minuet tonight with Katie. I’ll have to be for 
delaying the delivery of these goods while I can 
sneak hold of ’um!” 

“Very well, Mr. Fifield. Remember, Sam will 
take them direct from the train for delivery. ” 

“Yes, miss and a thousand thanks to you. How’d 
you dare carry round so much money,” he said 
taking his pay, viewing the roll of greenbacks in her 
purse. 

“All right. Ruby. Are you ready,” called Mrs. 
Croby. 

“Yes.” 

“Good-by to you and God bless you. Miss.” 

“Good-by,” said Ruby clambering into the 
wagon. 

“What’s that?” 

“ What? I don ’t hear anything. ” 

“That playing on a trombone, isn’t it?” 

“Oh! girl, that’s Piper John.” 

“Who’s he?” 

“Oh, you must be told. Ruby. It’s the butcher, 
where we are going, playing between his customers. ” 

“Is that his nick name? He’s a jolly soul,” and 
Sal pricked up her ears as she stopped. 

“He’s quite a player, Mrs. Croby.” 

“That he is. Ruby; one of the men with lost 
opportunities and a big family to support. ” 

The door swung open with a creak announcing 
to Piper John the presence of a customer. 


54 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


“Oh! good, good, good afternoon, afternoon. Miss. 
Eer — what — what — can — can — I — I — I — 
serve — serve — serve — .you — you — you — to.?” 

“I want to leave an order for you to fill. ” 

“Y-e-s, m-m-m!” 

“Fifty turkeys — ” 

“F-f-f-f-ty turkeys,” and he staggered back 
against his trombone knocking it to the fioor. 

“Any toy balloons,” came the nasal twang of a 
travelling pedler, as he peered in at the opening of 
the door. 

“All kinds of tin toys, sich as cats, dogs, cars, etc., 
and wreaths. ” 

“That’s just what I want,” cried Ruby, her 
eyes aglow. “ I ’ll take all you have. How much. ” 

“All I have, ” and the pedler stared wildly. Never 
in the history of trade had he struck such a bonanza 
and Mrs. Croby hitched herself to the stick of bal- 
loons with the air of a subdued martyr and the 
butcher stood dumb-founded with his ear attentive 
bent. 

“A leg of lamb to be delivered direct to Lucinda 
Stebbins. ” 

“There — there — there — hain’t — nobody to 
— to — to cook — cook — cook it. Miss. ” 

“Have you cranberries?” 

John nodded his head. “ Twenty-five quarts for 
the 23rd of December, delivered to Mrs. Croby.” 

“Ge-ge-ge whiz-whiz,” cried John, pencil in hand. 

“Twenty bunches of celery for same date and 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


55 


place. Five bottles of olives and three bushels of 
potatoes.” 

“Few — few — few,” ejaculated the butcher, his 
round red face glowing with delight. 

“Ruby, you be — be a — a Saint Agnes,” and 
Ruby rode away amid the heroic notes of Piper 
John — “Come to me my pretty maid and sing to me 
so sweetly,” — and as the notes died in the distance 
Aunt Lucinda heard a welcoming voice. 

“Tomorrow morning, Sam Ranger will bring you 
a different bed and bedding and Mrs. Croby is com- 
ing over to help you, Syntha, to set it up. Has the 
lamb come?” 

“Yes. If ever I saw the like of you. Miss Ruby. ” 

“I feel better already,” sighed the old woman, 
with tears of gratitude welling up in her eyes. “Judy 
told me you were a-coming last night. God bless 
you. Miss.” 

“I must go now. Aunt Lucinda,” she said sending 
a beaming smile through the air to be caught by the 
old lady and reflected on her own face and with this 
ray of sunshine filling the place Ruby made a hasty 
exit. 

Tired and weary, she retired after deciding the 
Christmas festivities for the young folks should take 
place in the church with appropriate exercises to be 
carried out by her faithful co-worker, Mrs. Croby. 


XI 


P SHAW, Suky, thair’s shame on yer to talk 
so about her. Just has if she was not all 
roight in her behavior in Boston. Land o ’ 
Gotian. Oi’ll bae for tellin Mr. Hastings 
on yer. The loikes av yer! ’Tis looky thing you 
haven’t spoken your thoughts before Mr. Hastings.” 

“I don’t care. What a fuss they do make over 
her,” tauntingly spoke Suky, her nose pointed 
disgustedly in mid-air. “She’s a good-fur-nothin’, 
so now. ” 

“Shame on yer viry loife, Suky Rocks. Yer ’ll 
be fer tasting yer just dessarts sum day,” and as 
the hours pass Ruby again is welcomed with open 
arms. 

Aunt Rebecca with only one more tack to put in the 
curtain leaves that and rushes down stairs to clasp 
her Ruby in her arms. 

“Hiram has planned for tomorrow night. Ruby. 
He is down town ordering the ice cream now and 
Angy she is hurrying with her crochet so we can 
christen the new center piece for the tea table.” 

“Well, well, whose coming. Aunt Rebecca?” 
“Jack Templeton, of course. Hiram won’t make 
known all he has invited even to me.” 


56 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


57 


“How is Suky?’’ 

“All right, I guess, Ruby. Delia called her a 
little upstart, only yesterday. ” 

“What for .5^ Poor Suky. Don’t let her speak so 
of her again. It is very cruel,” and so quickly did 
the events of the next day crowd themselves one 
after the other, that night was at hand before Angy 
could realize the fact. 

To be sure the crochet work was finished and the 
centerpiece made in readiness by Aunt Rebecca’s 
deft fingers, but Angy had struck a snag. 

Her heavy black brocade was laying on her bed 
and she was moaning behind her handkerchief, 
when Hiram appeared. 

“Why! What is the matter? What can be the 
trouble, wifey dear. Come, dry your eyes and get 
into your dress. ” 

“I can’t,” came the deplorable wail. “I’ve 
out-grown it.” 

“Stand up and let me try. I guess I can pull you 
into it,” and the rustling folds fell about her tear 
decked face. 

“Here’s one sleeve, Angy. That’s it. Now, 
here’s the other. Now just a minute, let me pull it 
down into place. ” 

“Hiram,” called Aunt Rebecca, “where are you, 
and where is Angy? Mrs. Thorndike is coming 
now. ” 

“Just a second, Rebecca,” and he tugged at the 
offending hooks. 


58 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


“There, that’s to — the lower one.” 

“Oh, Hiram, I shan’t be able to breathe. I know 
I shan’t.” 

“Just one more hook, then it will hold. I can cover 
up the rest with this fantastic vest arrangement.” 

“Oh! Oh! but I’ll try to stand it.” 

“LfOt’s make haste, wifey, now, for we are to be in 
the receiving line with Suky and Aunt Rebecca — ” 
and the music room was gained in just the nick of 
time, Angy puffing from her exertion. Once re- 
ceived, the company were seated amid the sweet 
perfume of purple orchids and white roses, Angy 
close to Mrs. Harmon. 

“Who was that, in lavender satin?” 

“Why, that’s the grand and noble lineaged 
Stanley Worthington’s wife from the Potter and 
that’s her illustrious nephew beside her with glasses 
on. That’s Ruby’s doctor sitting the second row 
back from Suky, Gladdis Thorndike also of the 
Potter, in mauve silk, beside him. That gentleman 
to the right of Gusty Hunneman is the new pastor ’s 
assistant. His face is partially concealed by that 
big palm. ” 

“Oh, dear. Miss Harmon, I can’t hardly breathe. 
My dress is so tight. ” 

“Who’s first on the programme, Angy?” 

“Oh, don’t ask me. I don’t know a thing about 
it, Mrs. Harmon. What can Hiram be waiting for? ” 
But at that moment a tall young woman stepped 
to the piano. 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


59 


Behind her with a roll of music in his hand came 
the singer, none other than Mr. Jack Templeton. 
His magnetic eyes caught Mrs. Hastings as he viewed 
his audience with calm dignity, then opening his 
music he waited casually for the accompanist’s 
preliminary notes. 

The place, the people were all forgotten and as 
the words of “The Holy City” rang through the 
echoing columns, the song came as a benediction as 
it was wafted on wings of beauty to Hiram in his 
bereavement. His tones were clear and flute-like 
from first to finish. 

Certainly a master voice, and those eyes, the 
glorifying orbs that test the hearts and hopes of the 
fair damsels before him. A hush of expectancy 
filled the place and then a maiden, with long braids 
of beautiful hair, appeared without notes. 

Jack followed her to the piano. All eyes were 
fixed now upon this young woman. 

Her breath came quick and fast then softened 
for action. 

The opening notes of the “jewel song” from 
Faust rang forth. “Oh, Marguerite” came from 
the company. “Bravo!” and the like as our fair 
singer held her audience. Again and again came the 
triumph of music, now soft and sweet, now high and 
clear till finally with one grand victory she swept 
from the room amid the din of “Bravo, bravo,” 
again and again. 

“Who was that?” whispered Mrs. Worthington. 


60 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


“Never in Grand Opera did I hear a more beautiful 
portrayal, Spencer. She won ’t come back. ” 

“What a pity,” said he, watching the entrance 
with unflinching gaze. 

Following came the Oratorio, “Hear Ye, Israel,” 
by Jack Templeton, given in a finished manner. 
Cheer after cheer brought him back and he sang 
“The Florian Song.” 

Another hush and Ruby in white china silk and 
violet orchids came in, her face aglow, her spark- 
ling eyes radiating an incense divine. 

She took her seat at the harp amid the craning 
of heads to catch every motion. 

Suky gripped her lips defiantly and stepped back 
from the audience’s gaze. Her eyes were green 
with envy. Her taunting manner was all lost, 
however, as the sweet notes of the harpist breathed 
their invocation of prayer and thankfulness. 

What a rhapsody of thought and action, now low 
and tentative, now presto and grand then again a 
varying staccato with each note plucked from the 
strings like a beautiful bouquet, with hyacinth and 
myrtle, with orange bloom and thistle all in an un- 
conquerable medley, each defying the other to grander 
power. 

Then a quick run with one gliding sweep from 
deepest bass to highest treble. It was then that 
the unexpected happened in some unaccountable way. 
Pansy had broken leash and with one long wail she 
took her seat beside Ruby, her nose upturned with 
a withering howl. 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


61 


With each crescendo and diminuendo she pledged 
herself to keep the place and laughingly Ruby 
struck the last grand chord and glided out of the 
hall calling Pansy after her. 

Then Mr. Hastings announced that refreshments 
would be served, in the dining room. 

“Who was Marguerite, Mr. Hastings?” 

“How beautifully Ruby carried off the offender,” 
and the like came from several groups. 

“Allow me, Mrs. Hastings to see you to the dining 
room.” 

“My, yes, Mr. Templeton, but I can’t hurry. 
I’m so short breathed, you know.” 

“I see, I see.” 

“Your music was grand, Mr. Templeton!” 

“That’s very gratifying, I am sure, Mrs. Hast- 
ings. Your daughter’s part was certainly masterly 
handled. Will you have a salad, madam?” 

“Well, I don’t know, Mr. Templeton, perhaps I’d 
better not. The oysters look very tempting. ” 

“Shan’t I have you a service of them?” 

“Well, perhaps I’d better, Mr. Templeton.” 
Just then the Rev. Emmons Horsford, with dignified 
mien escorted Suky Rocks into a conspicuous place, 
believing he had fulfilled Ruby’s request to show 
Suky every attention in so doing. 

Spencer Worthington was all attention to Miss 
Ruby. His round face was smiling and changed 
expression with his every mood. His manner and 
appearance, that of a corpulent man of the world. 


62 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


was engaging in the main, his flaxen hair going well 
with his complexion. 

Hiram was paying his attentions to Mrs. Worth- 
ington. 

“This salad is delicious, Mr. Hastings, and these 
oysters — I never tasted better,” she said with 
emphasis. 

Hiram smiled his pleasure, seeing at the same 
time that no omissions were being committed in 
the service of his guests. 

Dr. Klingwinter noted the attention of his rival 
with dignified bearing while conversing with seeming 
delight with those nearest him. 

And merrily did the talk run on like a river at 
full flow, amid the orchids' charm and roses' bloom. 

On to the toast. Oh noble host, let the sweet 
viands tempt thy guests and tribute tie the tendons 
of friendship to this honored sire. 


XII 


H ere ’S a letter for you, Ruby, ’’ said 
Aunt Rebecca, the morning before she 
was to leave for the east with her mother. 
“It ’s from Mrs. Croby. I ’m so glad to 
get it,” and she tore open the letter and read with 
delight. 

“ ‘The children, if you only could have seen them. 
Miss Ruby, it would have done your heart and soul 
good. I enclose Sadie ’s letter with her love. Aunt 
Lucinda Stebbins is a new woman gaining beyond 
all the doctor could hope for. She wants me to be 
sure and tell Miss Ruby she’s an angel in disguise, 
so I write her exact words. She sends her love and 
best wishes to you and yours during your long 
absence which she knows must take place before 
seeing you again. ’ 

“I’m so glad Aunt Lucinda is gaining fast. Aunt 
Rebecca. ” 

“Let’s see the poetry. Ruby!” 

“You read it. Aunt Rebecca!” 

“ ‘Dec. 25, 1898. 

“ ‘ Dear Miss Ruby — 

“ ‘We thank you very kindly 
Anna, Jamie, one and all, 


63 


64 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


ciiristmas toys and presents all, 

For the turkey and the candy 
For the pudding, plums and all 
And the nuts we cracked and ate. 

And under the mistletoe we forfeits paid. 

And now. Miss Ruby, to you we send a kiss 
And New Year’s greetings with a zest. 

Lovingly yours, 
Sadie. ’ 

“Well, I never. Ain’t that cute? That’s she 
’twas Caroline Beede’s daughter. That’s clever. 
No mistaking it. You better keep that. Ruby. ” 

“Oh! dear me,” cried Angy. “Won’t you help 
me, Rebecca Ann, pack my trunk. I’m all out of 
breath trying to fold my new furs. I’m half a mind 
to leave them home. ” 

“Don’t do that, Angy. Just get your things to- 
gether and I’ll pack them, in short order.” 

“Rebecca, may I have your smelling salts? I 
forgot to put it on Hiram’s list. My head aches so 
with all this confusion, I’m almost beside myself.” 

“Why, yes; put it right in your hand valise now. 
It’s on my dressing case. Ruby.” 

“Hadn’t I better have a bottle of ammonia, in 
case I should have a bad sinking attack, and some 
dyspepsia tablets. Oh, dear, I must sit down. 
There’s my wrap shawl forgotten. I don’t care 
what folks say about the looks of it, it will have to 
come from the camphor chest. Ruby, you won’t 
mind if I take it along?” 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


65 


“Oh, no, mother. It’s cold weather back east. 
We won’t meet anybody only strangers and we can 
be quite by ourselves in the drawing room. ” 

“Hiram often told me, with all his means I ought 
to travel more, but somehow I never could make 
up my mind for the hardship of it. I know I can’t 
sleep. Oh dear me, what a pity I decided to go, 
Rebecca. Give me some of my nervine. Ruby. 
Oh, dear, dear. Was that Hiram? Tell him how 
beat out I am and ask him to put me up some of the 
different Christmas candies so I may have some- 
thing to be doing as I go along. I can’t bear to be 
idle.” 

“I do declare. If I had forgotten that. Well, 
well, dear, getting ready in dead earnest, ain’t you, 
Angy? Everybody ’s helping, I see. ” 

“Oh, Hiram, come here, do, quick. What shall 
I do when I am gone without you, dear?” 

“Well, well, don’t think. After you’ve been east 
a few weeks you’ll forget all about me.” 

“Oh, how could you? How could you, Hiram? 
Don’t, don’t— if you do, .I’ll stay at home as sure— 
Oh, dear me, oh, dear me. Where’s the smelling 
salts? Where — ” and a skirmish ensued between 
boxes and bundles strewn in every direction and 
finally when Angy was coming to naturally, it was 
found in one corner back of the couch. 

“Hiram you must give up that drawing room, I 
feel sure I’m not equal to starting tomorrow. Tele- 
phone for the doctor. ” 


66 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


“Angy, you’re all right now. Don’t tantalize 
that poor man by having him go through the agonies 
of another good-by with Ruby. ” 

‘‘Do you still think he likes her, Hiram?” 

“ Why yes, sure, but let Jack have his way, wifey . 
He’s a dandy. I ’m willing for one. ” 

“But that Worthington fellow isn’t,” retorted 
Aunt Rebecca, her head emerging from the depths 
of the ponderous Saratoga. “He’s a clever fellow. 
I watched him all unnoticed by him the night of the 
musical and Mrs. Worthington — how Hiram did 
play the agreeable, Angy. ” 

“Oh, Rebecca Ann, don’t, I can’t stand any more. 
A feather’s weight would crush me entirely.” 

“Here are some periodicals, Angy, for your hand 
satchel and here’s some cologne. It’s good for 
car sickness. Here’s a bottle of Jamaica Ginger for 
your stomach and here’s some toothache drops in 
case of need. ” 

“Oh, Hiram, Hiram, if I should have that I should 
die. I know I should. ” 

“Here are some gum drops and molasses candy,” 
he said, pulling them from his pockets. “Let me 
see,” he said, “there’s something else. Now what 
did I do with those pickled limes. Oh, I know,” 
and he picked his way out of the room downstairs and 
back again placing the precious parcel in Angy’s 
own hands, for pickled limes had always been re- 
membered since courting days and prized more by 
Angy than anything else. 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


67 


The sun shone bright and glorious the next morn- 
ing. Hiram was keeping up remarkably well, not 
daring to show his feelings. The good-bys were 
said in a very stereotyped manner all around, Ruby 
agreeing with Aunt Rebecca ’twas best for mamma, 
and Hiram seeking out Suky telling her not to 
upset Angy about her long absence, etc. 

Then, Delia, with arms akimbo told Mrs. Hastings 
that “sha wuld bae for gittin married while sha was 
gone, if sha could have the luck to foind some one 
’twould have her,” and so on till the train really 
pulled out of the station with every eye dry and 
Hiram coughed his own feelings down as he turned 
to Peter with Rebecca and Suky. 

‘T’ll drive Mary Ann home,” he said with a long 
face and Mary Ann, of course, never knew that her 
master wiped his eyes vigorously on the way. 


XIII 


T HERE’S the first mishap,” cried Angy, 
drying her eyes. “I’ve broken my eye 
glasses. Oh, dear! oh, dear! What shall 
I do? What shall I do? I can’t see one 
word. Where are we now. Ruby?” 

“We will be in Los Angeles in an hour, mamma. 
We’ve just come through the San Susanna tunnel.” 
“The what?” 

“The San Susanna tunnel, mother. We will be 
passing the mission at Fernando in a few minutes. ” 
“The wash-outs will make our trip a long one, 
won’t they. Ruby?” 

“We will have until eleven at night in Los Angeles 
and that will rest you, mother. Then we travel all 
the next day until 5 o’clock, when we get to Sacra- 
mento. ” 

“What is there. Ruby?” 

“Why, that’s the capital.” 

“ Oh, yes, I forget. Don ’t tell anybody I couldn ’t 
remember. Ruby, will you? These forgetful spells 
are growing on me. I won’t own it to Hiram. ” 

And shall we follow our travellers along the Sacra- 
mento valley past the homes of peace and happiness 
as mile after mile the donkey engine wends its way 
past the green sward, pastoral and restful, with 
naught but squeak, creak of the primitive train. 
68 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


69 


Always the same, this tranquil scene, ever changing, 
ever the same and yet unrivalled — this famed valley 
of the Golden State. 

Pant, pant and the escaping steam hissed and 
spat under the mammoth station of steel. 

“O, Ruby dear. I ’ve stepped in my dress, ” and 
a helping hand was proffered by a fellow passenger, a 
shortish man with light hair and mustache. 

“There, madam, I hope you are not hurt,” he 
said, raising his hat. 

“Oh, dear me. No, sir; I think not, but it shook 
me up a little. ” 

“Let me help you to the waiting room.” 

“Oh, thank you. Thank you. I’m greatly 
obliged, sir, greatly, ” and the incident passed. 

A station lunch was disgusting to Angy. “Under 
everybody’s gaze. Ruby, I like the seclusion of what 
did you call the place, Ruby.^” 

“ Drawing room, mamma. ” 

“Oh, yes, I remember now.” 

“These scallops are very good, are they not, ma?” 

“ Yes, but I ’m disappointed in them a little. They 
don’t taste like Rebecca’s or those the caterer 
served the night of the musical. ” 

“In the Pullman office they told me just a few 
moments ago that we could go right on board the 
train. ” 

And when Ogden was reached, another change 
was made. 

Mrs. Hastings’ watch in some way had loosened 


70 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


itself from its chain and fell with a sharp snap of 
crystal, when she set foot on the station platform. 

“ Salt Lake City is only a short distance from here, 
ma.” 

“ Oh, Ruby ! Ruby ! look at my watch. Oh, Hiram, 
what will he say? It’s all smashed to bits,” and 
she covered her eyes with her handkerchief. “Oh, 
what shall I do?” and she sobbed aloud. “I don’t 
care about Salt Lake City. Let me sit down some- 
where,” and if it had not been for an official she 
would have fallen over a valise in her path. The 
wind blew a gale. “Oh, dear. Ruby, my veil is 
coming off. ” 

“This way for your train,” said the porter. 

“Oh, my veil, my veil!” sighed Angy, as the silken 
folds rose higher and higher in the breath of the 
wind. 

“Never mind, mother, you can have mine.” 

“All aboard, all aboard. This way ladies,” said 
the porter and with a sigh of relief Mrs. Hastings, 
out of breath and miserable sank into the seat by 
the window. 

“This is the delight of travel. Ruby. If I ever 
get home to Montecito again I never will — ” 

“Oh, mother, see! look at these boulders.” 

“Oh, don’t, don’t. Ruby. Let me rest.” 

“But take just one look, mother, to please me.” 

“Oh, my soul and body give me the smelling salts! 
These boulders will be down on the train. Oh! Oh! 
Oh! Ruby! It is frightful. Look at that mass 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


71 


there. I can see them tip. Oh! and I shan’t see 
Hiram any more.” 

“Here’s the Devil’s Slide, mother.” 

“Oh, what freaks of nature. Let’s have the 
fixings for night. Ruby. I shall have the nightmare 
tonight, sure!” 

“Hiram! Hiram! keep back! keep back! keep 
back!” 

“What is the matter,” cried the porter, rushing 
unannounced into the drawing room. 

“I can’t breathe! Oh, oh,” and the whole car 
was in a panic. 

“Is it train robbers?” cried a frantic passenger 
emerging in his pajamas. 

“Am I in a wreck?” cried another. 

“Where are we?” demanded another. 

“What was that terrible noise?” 

“Porter, porter.” 

“Yes, sah! nuflSn at all, sah. Jus de lady had a 
little dream and talked in her sleep. She all right 
now. Mr. I’ze very sorry, sah, for you to be dis- 
commoded. But it was nuffin I was responsible for, 
sah.” 

“I see, I see,” said our gallant traveller with the 
light hair and mustache. “All unavoidable and 
excused.” 

“We’re just crossing the Rocky’s, marm. De 
altitude is powerful high here, Miss. Dat’s de 
trouble, nuffin more,” and Ruby sfipped fifty cents 


72 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


into his hand and he showed his teeth and said, “I 
hope Mrs. will be better in de morn, marm. ** 

Quiet was restored and the tug, tug, of the engines 
laboring under their heavy burden, lulled Angy off 
to rest. 

On went the train past snow fences and dreary 
wastes. 

Night shadows came again and found the ponder- 
ous engine stealing a rest in Omaha, Nebraska, 
beside the picturesque Missouri, whose broad 
expanse spread out like a feast before them. On 
and on and on through the chill of night gaining 
Chicago in the morning. 

Stepping lightly from the train Ruby ushered her 
mother into a carriage for a drive about the city. 

“Oh, Ruby, these paving stones jar my head 
terribly. What shall I do? What shall I do. Oh, 
what high buildings. What if there should be an 
earthquake, we ’d surely be swallowed up and perish. 
Oh, Ruby, Ruby, tink on the window and have him 
stop.” 


XIV 


A nd shall we see our travellers again, 
seated in the Chicago limited. 

Next to their drawing room, Ruby rec- 
ognized the same light haired gentleman 
that they had met who was so kind to her mother. 

“I’ve lost my pocket book. Ruby. Oh! help me 
find it.” 

“Can I help you, madam?” came the courteous 
question. 

“Oh! how do you do, sir? I’ve seen you before, 
I think, perhaps. ” 

“Oh, yes, yes,” he said, remembering. “Is this 
your purse?” and he picked it from the folds of her 
overdress. 

“Oh, sir, a thousand thanks. I assure you I 
appreciate your courtesy, sir, very much. How 
much he reminds me of Jack Templeton, Ruby. 
Leave that door open for air. It ’s very stuffy in here.” 
“All right, ma.” 

“When you can, get a good look at him I want you 
to see if it isn’t he. ” 

“Oh, no, mother. This gentleman has light hair 
and Mr. Templeton has dark hair. His eyes are a 
bit like his. ” 


73 


74 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


“Your father is all gone on him, Ruby, and I must 
say I was very much pleased with him. He had 
such an engaging manner. Rebecca said Hiram 
made a fool of him. I don’t know but what he did. 
Do you really think he liked you, to be candid.^ ” 

“I think he seemed a trifle jealous of Mr. Wor- 
thington.” 

The next day passed without incident and about 
nine o ’clock the train pulled into the South Station. 

“Oh, Ruby Hastings, I’m so pleased to see you.” 

“Why, Eva, I didn’t expect you, — and Claude, 
you here too? How nice of you both. Girls, this 
is my mother. ” 

“How do you do,” said Mrs. Hastings mechanical- 
ly to both of the young ladies. “ Boo, isn ’t it cold? ” 
cried Angy. 

Eva took off her own fur and threw it about Mrs. 
Hastings ’ shoulders. “ Take my arm, Mrs. Hastings.” 

“How I miss Hiram, Eva.” 

“Yes, of course you would. How long are you 
going to stay in the East?” 

“Several weeks. I am going to visit relatives.” 

“Sit down here, mother, with Claude and Eva 
and I will get your ticket. ” 

Hardly had they taken their departure before a 
strange man confronted Mrs. Hastings with a 
“How do you do, Mrs. Hastings. My boss sent me 
to fetch you home in safety. There’s just time to 
catch the train if we hurry. The limited was late.” 

“Oh dear, oh dear, what shall I do?” 

“The train is on track 8, car 10. ” 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


75 


“I can’t go, I can’t go. Ruby told me to stay 
here with Claude. I’ve got in all manner of trouble 
telling and doing things that I shouldn’t.” 

“Let the young woman wait and tell her that you 
have left for track 8, car 10.” 

“ Oh dear, oh dear. I can’t walk so fast. Claude 
you take the other arm, ” she called, and Claude did. 

“I want to tell you about Ruby’s beaux, Claude, 
there’s time enough. There’s a doctor that likes 
her, a singer and — ” a young man with blonde 
hair kept just abreast of them on the platform — “and 
a Mr. Worthington. I don’t know which will get her.” 

Ruby and Eva, puzzled and perplexed, rushed 
back to find both gone and had it not been for a 
stranger who had watched proceedings, it would have 
been a predicament indeed. 

“They have gone, lady, for car 10, track 8.” 

“Thank you,” said Ruby, and off the two rushed 
making the train just as it gave the first step ahead. 

“Give him the ticket,” said Claude, as the coach- 
man ran down the car steps and caught the ticket. 

“What does this all mean, Claude?” 

“It’s all right. That man was the lady’s coach- 
man, where she was going. He called your mother 
by name.” 

“Oh, girls, what a mix up, but I feel so reheved 
to know mother has started and is in safe hands,” 
and the three left for Wellesley and in due time 
Ruby was in her old quarters, located for the rest of 
the season. 


XV 


A nd shall we look upon Mr. Hastings at 
this time, boarding the boat at Santa Bar- 
bara for San Francisco, valise in hand, his 
face firm and anxious looking. 

“I fear trouble ahead,” he said to himself as he 
crossed the gang plank. “There’s mischief of some 
kind brewing. I wish I didn’t have to go but this 
will business must be attended to. The law firm is 
of the best. Lord and Norcross is an old established 
place of business in Seattle. I have nothing to fear 
from them. Steward, where is this number,” and 
he thrust his berth check out for direction. 

“This way, sir,” and Hiram, who had allowed no 
extra time, felt the steamer’s motion under him. 

“I’m off,” he sighed as he threw his hat on his 
berth. 

When Mr. Hastings neared the Golden Gate he 
knew he would be in San Francisco in short order. 

“ I guess I ’ll stay at the Palace, that is centrally 
located, near the shops. Telegraph Hill and the 
Chronicle Building, etc. I’ve got to get me some 
cards. I don’t see how I came to forget mine. This 
trip is a forced one and I can’t expect things to run 
without a few mishaps of this kind. I never knew 
76 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


77 


Rebecca to start me off without everything I did 
need and a good deal I didn’t or couldn’t ever have 
a use for before, but she isn’t infallible, nobody is 
that.” 

“I’m off,” says Hiram, with a sigh. “This 
Shasta Limited will go along apace. I shall make, 
Seattle, let me see, ” and he consulted his timetable 
— “yes, about — ” and sure enough just on the 
notch, Hiram, tired and travel worn, stepped from 
the train into the Rainier Hotel carriage. 

“This city, I have heard said is one of the finest 
in the northwest. Surely it’s beautifully located 
on Eliot Bay and these terraces rising, as they do, 
from Puget Sound, make it very attractive. I sup- 
pose all these buildings have been built since the 
fire, eight years or so ago. I won’t look up the law 
firm until I ’ ve had a good night ’s rest and brush up 
in general,” and so we leave him with good inten- 
tions, located in the best place he could be for business 
or for pleasure. 

’Mid the inspiring view of the Olympic Mountains 
with nature’s panorama like a guardian angel 
hovering about him far from home ’mid strange 
scenes and events and the curtain falls in silken 
folds about him. Hushed is the scribe’s pen ’neath 
the blue sky of this wintry clime. 


XVI 


A 


UNT Rebecca,” said Suky, when they 
were sitting together in the library. 


“Yes, Suky.” 


I don’t think that will of Uncle 


William’s is a fair one. I’m a niece just the same as 
Ruby. Why shouldn’t I have at least $25,000 . 00. 

“Well,” says Rebecca Ann, falling in with the 
proposition, “I don’t think Ruby would care and 
of course it wouldn’t affect the rest of us. The rest 
and residue goes to Ruby. I never myself would 
want to meddle with a dead man ’s provisions, Suky.” 

“You are different from me. I’m an orphan and 
have myself to look after, in a way, ” snapped Suky. 

“If you say so, I can go to Los Angeles and con- 
sult an attorney as to the advisability of trying to 
break it,” snapped Rebecca. “I don’t know what 
Hiram would say. ” 

“I don’t care,” says Suky. “If you don’t go, 
I shaU.” 

“Well, I’ll pack up my grip tonight and start in 
the morning, only mind you, this is your business, 
not mine.” 

Sure enough, Delia, feigning not to know anything 


78 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


79 


about anything, is surprised to hear that Rebecca 
Ann will not be back for dinner. 

“Why, marm, what a sudden start. Faith whar 
kin ye ba goin.^” 

“Just forty minutes to make the station,” called 
Peter and she was off. 

“ I ’m Miss Rebecca Ann Hastings, sir. Give this 
card to Mr. Russell Gore. ” 

“Step in here and be seated please,” and Rebecca 
did as she was directed, her eagle eyes searching the 
room from ceiling to floor. 

“This is Miss Hastings, I take it.” 

“You’re Mr. Gore.” 

“That’s my name, madam. What can Ido for 
you.?” 

“Well, I am here on business for some one else. 
My niece, Suky Rocks, wants to break her uncle’s 
will.” The clerk and stenographer were called in. 

“Take down what is said,” he commanded, his 
tall choleric flgure upright before her, his cold grey 
eyes flashing. 

“That’s all,” he said, “that’s sufficient,” and he 
waved the stenographer out of the room. 

“I can’t see how it is feasible. Miss Hastings,” 
the clerk heard him say as he made his exit. 

“I don’t want to be overheard, sir.” 

“No danger, I assure you, madam. These are 
tried co-workers that I have. They are not allowed 
to disclose anything they might hear. ” 


80 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


He pushed his long, bony fingers through his mat 
of red hair and sat down, and the door being a parti- 
tion door the writer missed all but a word now and 
then that lent but little satisfaction, and Rebecca 
emerged with a confident air, stalking like a proud 
possessor of valuable information. 

This much is certain. Suky was told that the 
attorney was opposed to doing anything at this time 
by Rebecca, he seeing no grounds whereby to act 
now or at any future time in her behalf. 

“I can’t see why,” sighed Suky, keeping the 
subject mulling over and over picking up the argu- 
ment again and again. “He could, if he would. 
He’s very unjust and unprincipled not to try. Aunt 
Rebecca. If I were a man I’d be more helpful to a 
poor female. ” 

“Oh, do keep still, Suky. I can’t run across you 
any time of the day or night but what you ’re probing 
me for more reasons why or why not this or that 
thing can’t be done. I think we better come to 
some sane conclusion on the matter, Suky, and let 
it drop,” and after a day or two Suky apparently 
acquiesces and the subject is seemingly cast out of 
both their minds. 

“Oi’ll bae mum,” says Delia, “not a word of what 
Oi’ve gethered shall pass mae lips now or niver, no 
Delia Mallony, not Oi,” and she shook her fist at 
herself in the glass. “Remimber, Delia, not now or 
niver,” and her work was renewed with redoubled 
vigor as she came to this wise conclusion. 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


81 


Kept, shall we say, and the drama of life depicts 
character as it is and time marches with a lock-step, 
with events today as yesterday making port on 
the shore of misery or joy. 


XVII 



LAUDE, what is that you have in your 
hand?” 

“A German story, Ruby. While you 
were home I read a whole book in French. 


I’m a literary star, girls, hanging in the cradle 
of destiny. ” 

“An all ’round genius, I guess,” says Eva. 

“But what about the young man you have fallen 
in love with up to Mrs. Stacy’s?” laughingly spoke 
Ruby and Claude’s face, always austere in aspect, 
drew back as she straightened her tall, slender 
figure to its full height. 

“Bert Mansfield is nothing to me.” 

“Why, girls,” says Eva, very diplomatically, “it’s 
quarter to four and we really must hurry. Mrs. 
Stacy has been so kind to invite us to her home. ” 

“Her coachman is to call for us at five,” says 
Ruby. “Put on your prettiest dress, Claude. We 
don’t care one bit if you do carry off the young 
man’s heart.” 

Before the appointed time, Patrick, in high hat 
and furs, was at the door. 

“I’m not half fixed, ” says Claude, throwing on her 
furs. 


82 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


83 


“You look lovely,” says Eva, stepping in after 
Ruby and Claude. 

Ruby, with laughing eyes, said, “Claude, next 
book you read let it be, ‘She Stoops to Conquer.* 

“Does he sing, girls, just tell me that, Eva? Is 
he light or dark?” 

“He is dark. Ruby, with a pair of the most be- 
witching eyes you ever saw. Why, really, he is a 
connection some way in the Stacy family. Beatrice 
Van Dyke said his brother married her mother’s 
step-daughter. ” 

Patrick turned his head perceptibly. 

“ The McGraths are rich, you know. ” 

Ruby said no more. 

Was she thinking of her cousin Suky, Eva wonder- 
ed, or what harm could have been in her last sentence 
about the family connection? 

“Paul Stacy is very nice,” says Claude, changing 
the subject. “I think so, don’t you, Eva?” 

Eva blushed perhaps, but she did not commit 
herself in words and so the talk ran on away from the 
chaperone’s ears, out from under college rules for 
a few minutes. “WThat bliss, girls, this freedom of 
our tongues is. Just as good as a tonic. ” 

“Oh, girls, I do like dear old Wellesley,” spoke 
Ruby after a long silence. “You may talk all you 
like about the young men, but this enchanted place 
has a myrtle wreath of memories forme, stilled not 
by the foibles of society. ” 

“Ruby, please don’t. Next thing we shall know 


84 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


you will be entering a convent. I heard all about 
your charity work in the land of Yanonalit. ’’ 

“Here we are girls, almost. I see the house. Is 
that he?” 

“Oh, what foolish children,” Ruby said, as she 
stepped lightly from the sleigh. “But I’ll help you 
all I can. I surely will. I will play Mother Super- 
ior watching over her little ones. ” 

And Patrick, shall we say, really smiled as he sat 
there waiting for Eva and Claude to free him from 
his duties. 

“I am so sorry that Bert has been detained,” said 
Mrs. Stacy, “but we better not wait dinner for him 
any longer. ” 

A gloom came over the company. The comet 
that had shown so brilliantly in the sky of anticipa- 
tion had sunk out of sight and reach for Claude, and 
dinner would have been a bitter morsel had not 
Bert rushed in full of apologies and smiles. 

“ I just couldn ’t make here before. Aunt Lucretia. ” 

“Well, sit down,” she said. “Bring in the soup, 
Dinah.” 

“Oh, really, Aunt, never mind the soup, I have 
just had lunch down town. This is Miss Hastings — 
of where, did you say. Aunt?” 

“Of Montecito.” 

“O yes, yes, I see. A charming country, Miss 
Hastings, is it not?” 

“I am a great admirer of my native place and 
state, Mr. Mansfield.” 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


85 


“I — really, I think it was in 1885 I was there, 
wasn’t it. Aunt Lucretia?” 

“Oh, don’t ask me. My memory is poor on such 
matters. Stephen, my husband, says he’s always 
on the move somewhere. ” 

“Why, Aunt,” said Bert adjusting his glasses and 
smoothing his hair and whiskers in quick succession. 

“He only got back from somewhere just a few 
days ago. ” 

“Miss Hastings, now really take my part. Bea- 
trice, over there, knows me too well for me to receive 
sympathy from her.” 

“They are just the same as engaged,” spoke Aunt 
Lucretia to Claude under her handkerchief, “ Beatrice 
and Bert. ” 

“That’s so, mother,” said Paul, his ruddy face 
aglow. “I heard.” 

“Let me call your attention to my latest prize, 
Miss Ruby, ” said Paul and off the two went, break- 
ing up the group at table. 

“We’re wilhng for that to be a match.” This 
time Aunt Lucretia addressed her conversation to 
Eva. 

“I think it looks that way, don’t it to you?” 

“Why, Mrs. Stacy.” 

“I’ve been called away by telephone,” said Bert 
Mansfield, laying down the receiver. “What a pity 
this is.” 

“What a busy man for a man with all his leisure,” 
said Virginia Stacy with a merry laugh. 


86 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


“Live without me, that’s all. Good-by. I’m 
off, ” and the door sprung to with a bound after him. 
Once outside he slowed up his pace, and grew very 
thoughtful. 

“This is the only way. I can’t live without Ruby 
Hastings and there’s Aunt Lucretia making it out 
that Beatrice Van Dyke is the only one.” He lit 
his cigar nervously. This did not end his soliloquy. 
“She is a raving beauty to begin with. Her disposi- 
tion, — ^there you have me, — she’s the cleverest girl 
every way in the land.” He hesitated a moment, 
threw a puff of smoke from his mouth, snatched off 
his spectacles, pocketed them, then with one 
twist of his hand, he removed his whiskers, pocketed 
them also, and if the dark cosy corner in which he 
had chosen to secrete himself could have revealed his 
face. Jack Templeton and none other would have 
stepped, for a moment unobserved, into the light. 
“ Here it is. Good luck this, ” and without a moment ’s 
loss of time he placed a blonde wig upon his head as 
he casually walked along and added the same 
blonde mustache that Mrs. Hastings had looked 
upon on the trip east. 

“Now, ready,” he said, and quickening his pace 
stepped nimbly up the steps to Mrs. Stacy’s door, 
and rang the bell. 

To Dinah he thrust out a card with “Jack Temple- 
ton, ” aflixed to it. 

“Is Miss Hastings here? I understood she could 
be found here. A little matter of business — ^will 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


only detain her but a half hour or so — and he was 
ushered into the hbrary. 

Beatrice Vandyke with erect carriage and her 
cheeks rosier than usual with the exhilaration from 
her reciting, was giving good amusement for the 
company. Her eyes sparkling with the part she was 
playing and not until she had finished did she miss 
Ruby. 

Paul noted the fiush that mounted Ruby’s cheeks as 
the card was presented to her and his eyes followed 
her out of the room and along the broad hallway 
toward the conservatory. 

‘T am disguised,” he said in strained whispering 
accents close into Ruby’s ear. “My real name is 
Mansfield. I am the whiskered gentleman that 
stepped out just a moment ago. I have followed 
you across country and back, beheve me. Miss Ruby, 
in desperation.” 

“ Mr. Templeton, I am bewildered, perplexed. ” 

“I was Patrick, on the box. I was the deceiving 
lover of Beatrice Vandyke. Since I first looked upon 
your beautiful face I have thought of nothing but 
you. She may hold me to my avowals of love, but 
Miss Ruby — ” they were now in the conservatory 
’mid the varying blooms — “I have gone through all 
this for you, ” and the pink carnations of her cheeks 
deepened as his ardent protestations of affection 
were poured into her ears. When he stooped to pluck 
a rose for her, his blonde disguise fell off, observed 
by Beatrice Vandyke, who threw up her hands at 


88 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


the disclosure. Her Bert, the betrayer of her heart, 
the blight of her life. But realizing fully the value 
of not being observed she straightened herself as 
was her custom and a vengeance became manifest 
within her that carried her back to the group of 
young folks unruffled and unchanged for their gaze. 

Ruby returned to the group. The caller had left, 
and Paul Stacy was looking as only a lover could 
into Ruby’s face, when the night latch key of Bert 
Mansfield was thrust into the door and Bert bounded 
in. 

“By Jove, girls, let’s have a song.” 


XVIII 


L etting time veil the succeeding events 
we look upon a stranger in the Santa Bar- 
bara streets wending her way to a 
carriage. Nothing unusual, we say, in 
this land where the tourist makes the population. 
But what of her? Who is she? 

“How far is it to Mr. Hiram Hastings’, sir?” 

“Air hne or by road. Miss?” came the answer, 
sliding on the stranger’s understanding with a 
trifle of satire in it. “Wall!” he said laughing, 
seeing his remarks hadn’t set. “Wall, miss, you 
don ’t know me so well as Hiram himself does. I ’ve 
growed up along side on him. That is, seen Peter 
and the rest of the folks so much that they seem 
kind of relatives to me. Hiram’s a clever man, 
blunt, but you know alius jus whar to take him. 
Cornin’ round towards the point. Miss, he ain’t to 
hum now. Ain’t no use lyin’ to you and havin’ you 
findin ’ me out later. ” 

“I don’t care to see him. It is Miss Hastings.” 
“Oh, yes, yes, step right in. Miss. It’s four miles 
or so. I’ll fetch yer right over after I’ve nabbed 
that e’er man on tother side of the street up thar by 
the post-office. I want to order some hickory. 
89 


90 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


I ’ ve got to have it for I ’m all out and the old woman 
wouldn’t like it if I didn’t get it thar some way or 
how. Thar’s a good many curious things round 
these parts if you be unacquainted. Thar’s an 
eagle up this way. A piece made of myrtle or some 
kind of evergreen on a trellis-like, with electric 
bulbs for eyes, quarest fashioned thing you ever see — 
how some folks kin think on so much stuff, me nor 
the old woman, neither can understand. Thar’s 
an Australian bottle brush tree tother side of the 
town, if you have time, Miss, you oughter hunt up. 
But Hiram’s folks, by the way come from Yanona- 
lit, up Carpenteria way. Angenette, his wife, alius 
was that soft way when she was a youngun. What 
Hiram could ever see in her has been the specula- 
tion for folks, ever since he married jher. She’s off 
now. 

‘‘Their only daughter is bein’ college eddicated 
some whar east way. How them two could have 
had such an all killin’ good lookin’ young un, to 
speak plain about it, I can’t no way, nohow see. 
Rebecca Ann, the maiden sister to Hiram, is the only 
one to home ’cept a lame gal some way connected to 
them. I don’t know justly how. Hiram has gone 
to look arter some money affair. His brother died 
lately and Ruby thar is to become an heiress. Awful 
rich.” 

“What do you call wealthy out here?” came the 
inquiry of his heretofore silent companion. 

“Half a million or so. Miss. She had lots of beaux 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


91 


afore she noised round she was |to have it. Thar 
was one followed her cross country when she came 
home for the holiday season. I met him, and gosh, 
he nearly run down kerridge and all on the ocean 
front with his fiery charger. His name was Temple- 
ton — ^Jack Templeton. I wish her well. She’s 
clever. Miss. Alius doin’ good. Never speakin’ 
any harm of nobody. I run across Ezra Stark 
tother day and he told me how she put everybody 
on thar feet over in his town by buying out Piper 
John, the butcher and the grocer and fixing up 
Aunt Lucretia Stebbins so’s she’s up and about with 
the aid of a crutch. ” 

“She must be a beautiful charactered girl,” 
answered the stranger, plying the old man with 
another question. “Is she engaged?” 

“That I can’t no way get any means of finding 
out sartain. Miss. Here we are,” says the driver 
laying down the reins and getting out with difficulty. 
“I’ll ring the bell fur you, marm.” 


XIX 


O N the afternoon of a day in February 
we look upon an unusual arrival at the 
Hotel in Santa Barbara. A woman, 
say forty-five, of foreign aspect, with 
fiowing robes and decidedly Oriental in appearance. 

A few days later Rebecca Ann and Suky send in a 
card of introduction from Mrs. Trowbridge to none 
other than Madam Calif, world famous medium, 
crystal reader, clairvoyant and palmist, recently 
arrived from the Orient. 

Casting her eyes over the cards Madam Calif 
called her maid, waved her jewel covered hand 
towards the entrance, and the maid ushered Suky 
Rocks into her presence. 

Suky, somewhat excited but intent of purpose, 
took the proffered seat, watching the glory of the 
medium’s jewelled necklace, as she did so. Never 
in all her life had she seen such robes, such magnifi- 
cent surroundings. 

Madam sat on an elevated divan, with all the 
pomp and splendor of the native orientahst that she 
appeared, ’mid the perfume of sassafras and sandal 
wood, ’mid the sweet aroma of glorious blooms. 

The floor and the walls were all bedecked with 


92 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


93 


the good luck symboled rugs and tapestries and in 
the extended hand of the oracle Suky’s eyes beheld 
the magician’s cards. 

Suky began, “I have heard of your wonderful 
power, Madam Calif. ” 

The Star of the Orient bowed low and began: 
“Your great devotion for a certain doctor is apparent 
to me. Your inheritance by will through a recent 
death you are dissatisfied with. You have secret 
envy, concealed hatred for a beautiful young woman 
some way concerned with the property. Will you 
have a crystal reading or clairvoyant palm recital 
or—?” 

“It matters not,” said our now excited Suky. 
“Say to me whether I shall ever marry that doctor, 
if I should be successful, if my other hopes might be 
realized, if any danger would come to myself if I 
should undertake that which is uppermost in my 
mind?” 

“They appear to be plausible,” answered the 
medium, the words sinking into Suky’s innermost 
being. “Very plausible indeed.” 

Suky’s face was scarlet as she left the presence of 
this stranger from foreign shores. When she joined 
Aunt Rebecca just outside the portals, she told her 
she had met a spirit from the other world and never 
could she forget the grandeur and magnificence of 
the sainted woman, that still held her as if in a vice. 

“ I had to pay five dollars but it was surely worth 
it. Mrs. Harmon ought to consult her. I am so 


94 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


grateful to Mrs. Trowbridge for letting me know 
about her/* said Suky, mopping her face with her 
handkerchief. “The perfume of so many flowers, or 
something, I don’t know what, has exhausted me. 
Let us drive home right away. Perhaps Ruby 
dear will have a letter there for us that will make 
me forget all I have heard. Aunt Rebecca. ” 

“Perhaps so,” sighed Rebecca. “We ought to 
hear from Hiram by tomorrow night anyway. ” 


XX 


W HILE the succeeding events are 
shaping themselves the bevy of 
college girls are all excitement over 
their invitations to a grand ball 
given and chaperoned by a fashionable matron in 
the suburbs of Boston. 

The palatial home of Mrs. Montgomery is at last 
thrown open to her guests, the evening of February 
tenth. The glare of electricity upon my first glimpse 
is blinding. 

From the distance Vay, Vay off, merging from a 
breastwork of palms and fernery, comes the tones 
of the violin, the trombone and the drum, blending 
in one grand medley of sound, the welcoming sere- 
nade. “On to the dance,” it seems to say while the 
piccolo in piping notes sends its impish clarion into 
the recessed corners of the magnificent ball-room. 

An unusual stir among the guests makes me look 
with wide open eyes; and behold, like a goddess 
sweeping every glance, comes our heroine in soft 
clinging folds of violet. Not a jewel, not one single 
adornment save her crown of beautiful hair can be 
seen. Her magic voice and step stirs every heart. 
First Bert Mansfield, with glowing eyes, calls 
95 


96 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


for the first dance, and Claude Adare looks on like 
one resigned. 

Then Evelyn Nutting, with grace and beauty, 
glides up beside her chum and throws her arm about 
Ruby’s waist, and says, “Mrs. Montgomery wishes 
me to capture you for just one moment while she 
presents to you her nephew, Mr. Walton. ” 

“I see, I see,” says Bert Mansfield waving his 
hands after both as if he wholly approved. 

“Here you are,” says Mrs. Montgomery. “My 
most esteemed guest, dear Ruby. I had you 
singled out by your charming chum to meet my 
nephew first, upon his arrival. Allow me to present 
to you, Mr. Thomas Walton, of Washington, D. C. ” 

“Mr. Walton, it gives me great pleasure to meet 
you,” said Ruby, as she looked upon a tall, well pro- 
portioned young man with oval face and brown hair. 

“I am sure the great pleasure is mine,” came the 
jovial response. “Is your first dance taken?” 

“Yes, Mr. Walton, but my second is not.” 

“Then shall the privilege be mine?” 

“If you wish it.” 

Then Ruby was besieged by Paul Stacy, his ruddy 
face rosier than usual from his over exertion. 

“Where have you kept yourself? Virginia said 
you were at the other end of the room. Dance the 
first with me?” 

“I am so sorry, Mr. Stacy, my first and my second 
are already taken. ” 

“So soon? By whom, may I ask?” 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


97 


“ Mr. Mansfield and Mr. Walton. ” 

“Well, let it be third then, Miss Ruby.” 

On went the dance, with mirth and dazzling 
beauty. Beatrice Vandyke, with head erect and 
proud bearing, swept past with Paul Stacy. Then 
the austere visage of Claude Adare with a Mr. 
Graham Germane, then Virginia Stacy with Mr. 
Goldthwait and so they came, until Jack Temple- 
ton and Ruby with grace and beauty glided past 
under the keen glance of Beatrice Vandyke. 

‘ ‘ What a night . What a privilege, ’ ’ J ack was saying 
as he carried Ruby along with the music. “You 
are the Queen of the Ball. All eyes are upon us. 
What care I.^^” said he, making way between two 
couples. “I have the honor of the first dance. 
Beatrice is captured at last by Stacy. Ha! ha! ha! 
What grand music this. Cost a penny or so for the 
Symphony Orchestra, but the Montgomerys are 
copper proof. Money to burn, you know,” and 
abruptly the music ceased to the disappointment of 
Jack, who bore Ruby away on his arm to a seat, to 
be captured by her new friend, Mr. Walton. 

“You dance divinely. Miss Hastings. Shall I fan 
you.^^ Will you have a glass of water? This is the 
greatest privilege of my life. Miss Hastings, to dance 
with a young woman so void of the caprices of 
fashion, so beautiful and yet so free from vanity.” 

“Thank you, Mr. Walton. To dance with a 
young man who esteems himself above the petty 
deceits of society seems grand to me. ” 


98 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


Too soon did the gay notes cease that coupled 
the drama of life to the sweet accents of heritage. 

“By Jove,” said Paul Stacy, running up. “You 
danced like an angel with that man. I’m a trifle 
jealous of everybody in this room. Your name is 
on every lip. Your heart, Miss Ruby, must be il- 
lumined. Your voice changes to an angel’s beckon- 
ing whisper. ‘Come,’ it seems to say. ‘Come, 
come.’ ” 

“Oh, Mr. Stacy, please don’t.” 

The music had not ceased but Ruby begged to rest 
and Paul guided her to the corner divan where she 
sat like a rose just blooming. Paul wielded her fan 
gallantly. His silvery words were but an echo. 
His avowals of love but the ripple of circumstance 
playing their part in the medley of life. 

The refreshments were announced all too soon. 
The tempting delicacies were partaken of. 

The clock on the landing showed a beckoning 
warning. The evening gayeties were over. Jack 
and Paul each being satisfied that he was the lucky 
one; Beatrice Vandyke happy with the thought that 
all was well. 

Claude, who spoke not her thoughts, left with the 
rest with memories of a festive fete to be caught 
on the wings of recollection. 


XXI 


R uby was really exhausted and looked 
very pale, Evelyn thought, as she sat 
beside her in the carriage. “I fear 
you are working too hard. Ruby. 
Now the excitement is over your cheeks are really 
pale. Your eyes, too, look very weary.’’ 

“Nonsense, Eva. But I do feel so tired.” 
“Hadn’t you better go down to Dr. Farrington’s 
and have him prescribe for you? It isn’t right for 
you to look so pale, ” and true friend that Evelyn was 
she went to the doctor ’s office with her. 

“I would advise a complete change. Miss Hast- 
ings,” said the doctor. “A water trip where you 
could be quiet from your studies and society, an 
extended trip abroad with, perhaps, your mother.” 
“And leave dear old Wellesley?” 

“Your health is worth more to you. Miss Hast- 
ings. I would suggest the southern route via 
Gibraltar, Naples and then cross to Alexandria and 
from thence to Cairo up the Nile. ” 

The doctor looked over his eye glasses searchingly. 
“If this way is chosen, you should be off in a week, 
so as to do the hot countries before the season is off. ” 
“Why, it takes my breath away, doctor, and 
99 


100 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


Dad, what would he do and Aunt Rebecca and 
Suky?” 

“I know just what Mr. Hastings would do,” said 
Evelyn coming to the doctor’s rescue. “I have only 
met him once but that was enough to satisfy me 
that whatever was for your good he would push to 
the uttermost. I will wire Mr. Hastings at Seattle 
and if the response is favorable we will have her off, 
doctor.” 

“I’m glad to hear it, very. Miss Nutting.” 

Mrs. Hastings breathlessly declared, “It was the 
quickest decision her Hiram had ever made. ” 

And as the big ocean liner slowly wended its way 
out of the harbor that February day, Angy started 
for her berth. 

“Oh, Ruby, dear, I never can, I know I can’t get 
to our stateroom! Oh isn’t it rough Why did I 
come? Oh dear, dear me, I shall be overboard. I 
shall be overboard. Where’s the smelling salts. 
Ruby?” 

“Allow me to assist you, madam,” said a stranger 
running to her. 

“Oh, dear, dear,” sighed Angy, as she regained 
her upright position. “Thank you, sir. I am so 
sick.” 

Over the watery highway, day after day, over the 
dancing waves, the big liner went rolling on. Was 
Ruby dreaming of home as the days passed? 

Mrs. Hastings, bedecked in hood and generous 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


101 


folds of a golf cape, well tucked in her steamer chair, 
was no longer oblivious of the rolling of the gallant 
ship, but was safely at rest in the arms of Morpheus 
for her morning nap. 

“Mother dear! we are nearing land.” 

“Where, Ruby, where 

“The Azores!” 

The bold outlines of San Miguel were rising 
proudly from the sea. The day was perfect, and 
skirting along the south shore of this grand oasis, 
as it seemed after days on the high seas, was one of 
interest to our travellers. 

The Azores are a group of nine islands, at intervals 
along a course of four hundred miles. Semi-tropical 
and volcanic, San Miguel is the largest of the islands, 
being eighty miles long and j^twenty-five miles wide. 
The pastures or fields were very green and every 
available spot, even to the hilltops, seemed to be 
under cultivation, the division lines being formed 
by throwing up the lava. In places ravines had 
been cut down to the sea through the volcanic soil. 
Again the perpendicular walls of volcanic rock rose 
in rough outlines from out the sea, and now and 
then the orange, red, grey and brown coloring came 
out slowly with the sun upon the formation. The 
hills were in irregular outline, the highest having an 
altitude of 2,500 feet. 

Little villages of low white houses, without chim- 
neys, appeared at intervals with an occasional wind- 
mill turning hand springs on the sky. 


102 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


Monday morning, found the good ship in the 
outer harbor off shore from the Gates of Hercules. 

“Mother, dear, don’t get nervous, I find we have 
to leave on a tender for the town of Gibraltar. ” 

“Oh, dear me! Ruby, I never can, never, never, 
never!” 

“See, mother! The first passenger has tried it in 
safety! Just look at the steps, not at the water.” 

“0/i, dear! what shall I do — what shall I do?” 

“Just take the first step, mother, and all fear will 
leave you. ” 

“If I should fall into the water. Ruby — if I should 
>> 

“Now take another step, mother.” 

“Tell Hiram I died thinking of him!” and the 
sturdy seaman lifted her bodily over the tender’s 
edge. 

“Oh, Ruby! The smelling salts, the smelling 
salts. If I was only home I — Oh, Ruby! Where 
are we, getting into Paris?” 

“No, mother, Gibraltar.” 

“What’s that?” 

“A fortification. We will soon be on land,” and 
sure enough, they were directly borne away by the 
sturdy little horses in an antique vehicle over the 
wooden and stone pavements, through the main 
street which was narrow; and then they began the 
ascent, a steep climb up streets, which rivalled those 
of Quebec, to the barracks, where they registered; 
then a soldier guided them down sloping streets. 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


103 


where they caught a glimpse of the blue waters of 
the bay, then again up an incline, where on either 
side luxuriant foliage and flowers were drooping in a 
medley of bloom. 

The great rock loomed up before them. The 
gate was unlocked, the steep climb began up the 
wide arched galleries cut out of the solid rocks, and 
large enough for a mule team to pass. A faint, 
glimmering light crossed their path, and Angy, 
though somewhat out of breath, was doing wonder- 
fully well. 

“Oh, Ruby! how have I stood the climb so well.^ 
If I can only get to the top and see the view. Can 
I see the Eiffel tower from up there?’’ 

“No, mother, this is Gibraltar.” 

“Oh, I see. Ruby, it’s the other side of the hill! 
Oh, dear me! how different everything is when 
you get to a place. I can’t go another step. Let’s 
start back, ” and they descended rapidly. 

Leaving the barracks they clattered down over 
hilly streets, past the tile-roofed and stucco-be- 
decked houses of various hues, to the beautiful 
Alameda. From one side of this open space wide 
low steps lead up to the gardens. Here Mrs. Hast- 
ings and her daughter sat down on a low stone 
bench, near the Elliot monument, surrounded by 
what seemed to be peculiar, struggling, old pine 
trees with spreading tops, picturesque palm trees, 
the eucalyptus, with its bark hanging in somewhat 
circling forms around the trunk, the pepper tree in 


104 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


fruit, a profusion of sweet scented yellow flowers, 
amaryllis, red geranium, etc. 

“Ruby, this seems like home,” said Angy, as she 
looked about her with delight, and as she spoke they 
heard the tramp of marching feet. 

There just below, and near them, the red coats 
marched by, forming a brilliant bit of color compli- 
mentary to the luxuriant green, then a touch of the 
blue waters beyond, guarded by the more distant 
Spanish Hills of the Inner Bay. 

After a long, lingering look they continued on 
their way to Europa Point, where they saw the 
homes of the oflicers. 

“My head is so tired,” says Angy. 

“I am getting weary too, mother. We will just 
catch a glimpse of the market place as we go back 
to the boat landing,” and they saw the native 
women with kerchiefed heads, and the unique 
flgure of a Moor in passing. 

Once under the baggage shed Angy, now entirely 
exhausted, sank down upon a bench, oblivious of 
her surroundings, settling heavily against what 
seemed to her a nice filled bag. 

“Oh dear me, I didn’t know I was so tired. Ruby, ” 
and she fell asleep. 

Suddenly the unforeseen happened — ^Angy ’s prop 
commenced moving. She stirred restlessly in her 
sleep. Where was she? Her eyes opened wide. 
Her pillow moved convulsively. 

“Oh dear me! Where am I? What is the mat- 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


105 


ter, Ruby?’* She staggered to her feet, rubbing her 
eyes. “Oh dear me! Oh dear,” she looked behind 
her, and there, straining his eyes in the gloom 
was a drowsy Spaniard just aroused from his 
slumbers. 

Mrs. Hastings realized her predicament. She 
had been resting against this foreigner. She started 
to walk hurriedly, and Ruby followed. 

“What a dreadful thing, Ruby. Oh dear, dear 
me! Don’t ever tell, will you! Oh! I can’t walk 
so fast! Let me catch my breath. Is he coming?” 

“Do not think about it any more, mother dear. 
It was only a coincidence of travel. We must go 
aboard the tender now. Don’t you want some of 
these sweet lemons? They look very tempting, 
indeed. Here mother, taste it.” The boy had 
vanished with his pretty grass basket. 

“Well, in a minute,” and she took it and sank her 
teeth well into the juicy delicacy. “Oh! Oh! take 
it. Ruby. It’s a sour lemon. Oh, the wicked boy. ” 
She wiped her mouth vigorously. “What a dread- 
ful state of — ” and over the white capped waves 
sped the tender, gaining the liner where our travellers 
went on deck to watch the various contours of that 
impregnable fortress which the English have held 
since 1705. 

A little village, — Catalan Bay, — lay nestled at 
the foot of the great cliff on the Mediterranean side. 
The Spanish coast appeared in the irregular hills 
which gradually receded until lost to view. They 


106 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


looked across to the rugged gateway on the African 
shore, twenty miles from Gibraltar. 

Just after breakfast the second morning, they 
began skirting the coast of Sardinia, sometimes afar 
off and then nearer, sailing from cape to cape of the 
larger bay on the south. 

The lights and shades as the clouds shifted over 
the rugged coast line and retreating hills were fasci- 
nating, and as this Italian island was quickly passed 
and another span of the limpid blue waters lured 
them on, the good ship dropped anchor in the early 
morning in beautiful Vesuvius Bay, with all its 
beauty and charm, with grim old Vesuvius now at 
rest, with only a blue line of smoke, suggesting the 
hidden power of this vent of the earth ’s forces. 


XXII 


M rs. Hastings and Ruby with glad- 
some hearts were soon located ashore 
surrounded with letters and luxuriant 
blooms. 

“Hiram says, ‘Don’t try to take in everything, 
Ruby, but go leisurely until you feel very strong.’ 
Oh dear me, oh dear, not a word where I must hurry 
or not ! He appears to me to be troubled like about 
something. What can it be.^ I shan’t have a bit 
of a good time if I feel he is worried. Oh dear! 
Oh dear.” 

“Don’t worry, mother, we will take a drive to 
Pompeii and spend the night.” 

“As you say. Ruby. What is there, for us to 
see?” 

“The excavations of a city once buried by the 
eruption of Mt. Vesuvius. ” 

“Oh, I’m afraid to go. Ruby. I can’t do it, I 
can’t do it. I shall be buried alive.” 

“That occurred years ago, mother, dear.” 

“Then it is time for another disturbance. Oh 
dear. Why did I come? Oh, dear me. Oh — dear.” 

“There’s nothing to fear, mother. If you rather, 
we can take a shorter drive first to Pozzuoli. ” 


107 


108 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


“Oh don’t, Ruby. Don’t say another word. I 
shall have no nerves left. What shall I do.^ I’m 
going to write Hiram and ask him what can be the 
matter that makes him so different. Here, Ruby, 
you take the pen and say you are much better. I 
can’t stand such neglect from Hiram above all 
others and ask him for my sake to be careful and write 
love letters to me even if he don’t mean them,” and 
she covered her face with her handkerchief. “What 
should I do without Hiram’s love.^” 

“Mother! Mother! Dad’s letter is all right. I 
can’t see anything wrong at all. ” 

“Oh, my head, my head. Let me rest. Don’t 
you go back on me, Ruby. He didn’t even tell me 
he wished he could give me some pickled limes. Oh, 
dear, but such is life. ” 

“I’m going to have a carriage called this very 
minute, mother. We must lose no more time.” 

“Oh child, child!” but Ruby appeared with her 
mother’s wraps and her own. 

“It will be a lovely afternoon drive to Pozzuoli 
and back, the ancient site where Paul landed in 61 
or 62 A. D. At that time this was the most direct 
port from which to reach Rome. ” 

In a few minutes after leaving the hotel they went 
through a long tunnel under the hill. These hills 
along the coast seem to be a kind of tufa and look 
like unbaked brick. 

Their little pony pulled nobly up one long hill, the 
driver walking beside him* Back of them was 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


109 


Vesuvius with a dainty cloud of smoke, looking like 
an attached cloud rolling off at the side. Before 
them and below, the sparkling waters. 

The prison for all Italy is located on a bold island. 
The topography of the country is so changed that 
it must of necessity be disappointing from an histori- 
cal standpoint. The town of Pozzuoli once stood 
over what is now the crater of Sufferatta. There 
is a roadway across the depression forming the 
crater and at one side the water bubbles up in a 
small space. The odor of sulphur is very apparent 
from the steam. Near by is a building for the 
manufacture of terra-cotta. 

They drove on toward the present town of Poz- 
zuoli, past the ruins of the amphitheatre where Nero 
used to go, and perhaps even take part in the ring. 
Descending a steep pavement to the coast, they came 
back to Naples over an equally interesting drive, 
passing a sumptuous tomb, which a rich Egyptian 
Jew already has built for himself, when he passes on 
to another state. 

As they neared Naples elegant carriages whirled 
by, occupied by handsome women, and fine looking 
men — the elite of the city. 

“Is my bonnet on straight. Ruby? Do we look 
all right?” 

“Yes, mother, they know we are travellers, and 
here we are back to our hotel. ” 


XXIII 


E arly the next morning with a quickly 
prepared lunch from the hotel they stood 
waiting for their carriage for their trip to 
Pompeii. 

“Oh, Ruby, what looking horses. What are all 
those tag rags hitched to their harnesses for. I can ’t 
go with such looking beasts. Think of our Juno and 
Jupiter at home. ” 

“Mother, that is part of a traveller’s life to be 
brought in touch with the customs of the people. ” 
“Oh the rowdy. Ruby. What a looking peep. 
Hat on eskew. Oh dear, oh dear. I never can 
stand it. He looks like a state’s prison bird. I 
wouldn’t dare.” 

“He is a fit subject for a comic opera. Come, 
mother, come. It’s all right,” and Mrs. Hastings 
stepped reluctantly into the vehicle, eyeing the 
driver as she did so. 

Off they went slowly, until a village was sighted, 
then the Neapolitan driver plied the lash and the 
teams of all sorts and description were passed in 
quick succession as they were slowly wending their 
way to market. 

“I’m getting very hungry. Ruby. I must have 
110 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


111 


something to eat or I shall faint away. My breath 
is all gone. Give me one of those boiled eggs. It 
would taste better than anything,” and as the 
driver slackened his pace Angy broke the shell, then 
started to peal it. Without warning the whole egg 
shot forth like a rocket with fantastic feats and 
fanciful caprices. 

“Oh! oh! oh! They didn’t boil them enough. 
Ruby, look at my dress, my face, my bonnet. What 
can I do? What can I do.? Make the proprietor 
pay for it. Ruby.” 

“Oh, it is not so bad, mother. Let me just take 
off this little bit on your skirt. There just a moment 
longer and no one can ever tell you have had a mis- 
hap. ” 

In the early afternoon, Mrs. Hastings and Ruby, 
with a very enthusiastic guide entered the ruined 
city, the favorite resort of the Romans, passing the 
most famous Temple of Apollo on their left. 

“Oh, Ruby, I can’t stand another minute. I’ve 
been trying as hard as I can to see something in all 
this mass that is whole. I should think somebody 
would clear it up. If it was out in Montecito they 
would. I am going to sit down on these steps to 
rest,” says Angy and their guide smiled as he gazed 
at old Vesuvius. 

“These are stepping stones, mother, and these 
the ruts that the chariot wheels of bygone days have 
made in the street. ” 

“Yes,” said the guide, “there used to be a bell 


112 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


ringer stationed in the streets, they were so narrow, 
to give warning of an approaching chariot. When 
you are rested I will show you the new house. Vetti- 
orum was brought to light in 1895. The garden is 
surrounded by eighteen columns and overlooked by a 
beautiful dining room done in Pompeiian red. The 
delicate figures painted to imitate various manufac- 
tories adorn the walls. ” 

“I think you have done remarkably well, mother. 
We have walked a long way among the excavated 
streets and ruins. We have seen the house of the 
magistrate, Panza, to whom Blind Nydia was de- 
voted. We have looked upon the mural paintings. 
We have seen the Basilica or Court of Justice, its 
open courts and covered galleries. We have walked 
upon the Street Abundance the same as Cicero in 
this city of the past. ” 


XXIV 


T he first scenes that greeted Mrs. Hast- 
ings and Ruby on their drive to Sorrento 
were the men and women working in their 
gardens. The soil seemed very rich as 
they dexterously handled it. 

They could readily see that the overfiow from 
Vesuvius was responsible for this, also the system 
of irrigation accounted for the tall pampas grass 
which on every hand caught their eyes. 

“What do they do with this grass, Ruby?’* 
“Make storage huts of it, mother!” 

The homes of these peasants are so primitive, 
but how picturesque, with the stucco blending in 
harmony with their simple life, and as they journeyed 
along how tempting the cauliflower looked, in its 
wealth of growth. On they went through Castella- 
mare, Vico, Meta to Sorrento, well paid for their 
journey they both thought as they left their carriage 
and stepped quickly out to the broad veranda of 
the hotel, which had a commanding view, on one 
of the bluffs. 

“Oh, Ruby! isn’t this grand?” 

“It certainly is.” 

The sparkling waters of the bay lay at their feet, 
Capri at their left. 


113 


114 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


Vesuvius now in the distance, and Naples away 
over the other side of the bay. 

A little past eleven they left Sorrento and again 
passed between the high walls which protected the 
orange and lemon groves above them on either side. 

The trees were heavily laden and sheltered from 
the winds in places, by a kind of matting, evidently 
made from pampas grass. 

Occasionally a few beautiful roses would add an- 
other touch of beauty. 

As they left Meta and ascended the fine road 
protected by a capped wall from the cliff below, they 
looked back to the little town and the hilly back- 
ground, then out over that bay so famous in classic 
literature. 

The coloring on land and sea was beautiful. 

A brilliant blue with a deeper hue of violet, from 
the cloud shadows, then close in shore, the most 
exquisite shades of a silvery sea green. 

On the right, the hills were terraced to their very 
summits, with olive groves. 

The fig trees were not in leaf, but the eucalyptus 
and sycamore were in evidence. 

They passed the live oak trees which would be a 
welcome shade in the hotter days. 

As they once again approached Pompeii, the pine 
trees, with branches cut to their tops leaving only 
an umbrella effect, stood as sentinels stationed at 
intervals to guard what remains to them of a once 
gay city. 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


115 


“Now, mother, we will have lunch, and a little 
rest, then in the cool of the afternoon we will drive 
to Naples.” 

Long before they were back to their temporary 
home the sun dropped behind Ischia, the bright 
stars glittered, the new moon hung like a silvery 
crescent over Vesuvius, the street lamps glimmered. 

On, on, steadily on, the faithful horses kept up 
their even trot with scarcely a break, until they 
reached their hotel. 

“I don’t feel so tired tonight. Ruby. How 
pleased Hiram will be to know how well we both 
feel.” 


XXV 


T oward evening the next day they 
took a long lingering look at Naples — 
Vesuvius smoking quietly his evening 
pipe in the distance, — and with the 
memories crowding their minds the good ship went 
its way, passing Scylla and Charybdis in the 
early morning. 

“I don’t feel equal to going ashore at Messina, 
Ruby. I don ’t believe Hiram would think it proper 
anyway. ” 

“From the ship’s deck we can get a good view, 
mother, of the street circling the little inner harbor, 
with its block of stucco-faced houses surrounded by 
an amphitheatre of hills, on which we can see an 
old ruin and a garden. The east side of the harbor 
is encircled by a sickle shape peninsula of land ter- 
minated by a fortress, looking over across the nar- 
row water way to the snow capped hills of Italy.” 

As they steamed out of the harbor, they realized 
that they were sailing not only on classic, but sacred 
waters, and in their bibles they followed the journey 
of St. Paul as he passed by on his journey to Rome. 

During the previous night the active volcano of 
Stromboli was passed and ^tna appeared on the 
Sicilian coast before her hills faded away. 

The southern portion of Italy seemed to be of 
116 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


117 


stone formation which dominates Italy, volcanic 
in nature. 

Little villages appeared at intervals and a railway 
skirted the coast. 

There seemed little to support life but they could 
see glimpses of green pastures back of the coast 
hills. 

One little village of two or three hundred inhabi- 
tants was perched just at the foot of what looked to 
be a huge rock of volcanic formation. 

A signal station telegraphed the safe passing of 
the ship. 

Let us spare our readers from describing the 
tribute which Neptune demanded of our travellers 
during the passing of the time before the low lying 
coast of Egypt was approached. 

“I have just caught a glimpse of the African shore, 
mother. We will soon be there. 

“I’m so sick, so sick. Ruby. I never shall live 
to see land, I know I shan’t. ” 

“Let the stewardess help you dress.” 

“Oh, dear. Oh, dear. I can’t raise my head 
from the pillow. I shall die alive. Oh my head, 
my head. ” 

“Don’t, mother, the sea is quiet now. We are 
in the harbor. I can see the boatmen coming out. ” 

“My hair isn’t combed. My dress is all undone. 
Oh, dear! Oh, dear!” 

“Try sitting up,” and as she did so Ruby tied her 
veil about her dishevelled hair. 


118 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


The now shouting boatmen, in their long robes 
and turbaned heads, clambered on board soliciting 
the carrying of baggage ashore. 

“Oh, Ruby, they mean to rob us. Just see them 
come. My head! My head. Let me sit down. 
Don’t let them have my hand satchel. ” 

“There is no danger, mother, I have engaged one 
of Cook’s men to take us safely ashore.” 

“ Cook ’s men ! Who are they ” 

“Agents to assist travellers and guide them to 
their destinations.” 

“Oh, dear. I feel better, but what a rittle-rattle 
time it is. Ruby. Will we ever make the land? 
What’s that building off there and that one? What 
is that?” 

“The red granite shaft is Pompey’s Pillar and the 
other must be the light-house at Alexandria. ” 

“Oh, how can you think in this terrible din. I 
can get Hiram’s next letter when I get to Cairo 
can’t I? Oh, dear. If I only had just one pickled 
lime from Hiram ’s hand I could be happy once more. 
But this terrible suspense, this terrible noise.” 

“Step this way, ladies. It is perfectly safe.” 

“Oh, my umbrella. Ruby. I left it over back 
of my berth so’s to be sure it was safe. What shall 
Ido? What shall I do?” 

“Never mind, mother. We can get another.” 

“Oh, dear, dear me,” and she stepped into the boat 
bewailing her loss and over the dancing waves they 
sped, stepping foot on African soil. 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


119 


They were quickly driven to the Kheideval Hotel 
and as Angy said in passing, “What a place for 
people to imagine what has been and what a home- 
sick place to find yourself located in. Oh dear, oh 
dear. These street scenes — these people — this canal.” 

“Tomorrow morning we leave for Cairo and 
there you may revel in all the unusual sights until 
we start up river. ” 


XXVI 


I am so thankful, Ruby. So thankful. Cairo 
is going to be to me the best part of the 
trip, sighed Angy and shall we see her watch- 
ing with eager eyes each passing camel, sais 
and what not, for here everything is moving at once, 
rich and poor, threading this living maelstrom of 
pomp and splendor, of squalor and wretchedness. 

“Oh, Ruby, what will come next?” and as she 
spoke a nobleman with splendid carriage passed 
with the rest. “Who could that be. Ruby? Wan’t 
he swell looking. Oh, how cheap everything and 
everybody looks after seeing him. I believe he 
is coming into the hotel! I don't think I could 
blame you if you should become interested in 
foreigners if they look like him.” 

The Highland band was playing and Angy was 
gloriously happy. 

“Oh Ruby, I never thought I liked excitement 
before. I believe if I stayed here any length of time 
I should grow so young looking that Hiram wouldn 't 
know me. He would bring me home a whole car- 
load of pickled limes and have to charter old Sam 
Ranger of Yanonalit to bring them over. What 
would Piper John or Ezra Stark or the children say, 
for that matter, if they could look on such a sight. ” 
120 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


121 


“I am tired,” said Ruby, “let us go and be quiet 
awhile.” 

As they were passing Angy’s heart gave a thrill, 
for there before her the nobleman stood bowing in 
hospitable fashion on Ruby and herself. 

“This is Mrs. Hastings of Montecito?” 

“Yes,” says Angy, deferentially. 

“And this is your daughter,” he said. “I am 
Lord Neverskeen. I have a letter here from Mr. 
Thomas Walton. ” 

“Why, why,” says Mrs. Hastings almost gleefully. 

“Let us sit down, ladies, while I make myself 
known to you through Mr. Walton’s letter.” 

Mrs. Hasting ’s face was aglow with the excitement 
of it all and Lord Neverskeen sat at Mrs. Hastings’ 
right unfolding the well filled pages of a long letter. 

“ Tt will be extremely gratifying to me,’ ” it 
began, “ ‘ if by any courtesy of yours, Mrs. Hast- 
ing’s and her daughter’s sojourn in Cairo could be 
rendered more enjoyable. Mrs. Hastings has a 
genial manner,’ ” he read, and he looked from the 
pages smilingly upon Angy. 

“ Oh Lord, Lord, I can ’t remember, I can ’t remem- 
ber your name. Lord! — Lord — ” 

“Lord Neverskeen,” he said gallantly. 

Ruby smiled. 

“It goes without saying you can see for yourself 
the wondrous charms of this beautiful young wo- 
man!” he read. “I assure you it will be a great 
privilege to do anything in my power for you. ” 


122 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


“Thank you, very, very much,’’ says Angy, 
showing no signs of fatigue. 

“If you have not planned your trip up the Nile, 
will you join my party. ^ Lord and Lady Nerooski, 
the Honorable Samuel G. Sorokan, Master and Miss 
Sorokan, Count Falais, Signor Itello and so on, are 
of the party. ” 

“I never did see such luck. Ruby. I know Ruby 
and I would be delighted. Lord — Lord — Lord — 
what is it.^ I can’t remember as well as I could 
once. ” 

“I assure you there are only a very few who can 
remember my name. It really is a very peculiar 
one. Now the party leave day after to morrow in 
the morning. What can I show you in the mean- 
time.^ — ^the view from the Citadel, the street scenes 
of the Muski, or the Pyramids themselves, the 
Sphinx. ” 

“The what?” says Angy. 

“The Sphinx, Mrs. Hastings.” 

“Is that the stone lady I used to read about when 
Hiram first saw me. Ruby?” and they all had a good 
laugh. 

“Ah! that’s your husband.” 

“Yes, Hiram is a good man, too. I think you 
seem a lot hke him in many ways. ” 

“Oh, thank you, Mrs. Hastings, I feel honored, 
indeed. ” 

“ I want to be sure of seeing the Zoological Gardens, 
Lord Neverskeen. ” 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


123 


Angy seemed to have superhuman strength given 
her, for they were off in a few moments. 

“ I want to try an elephant ride,” says Angy breath- 
lessly, looking upon the flight of steps that on 
either side led to a seat on his back. 

“You shall,” says the chivalrous lord. “There 
is really no danger. The keeper is always up there 
on his neck to keep him from being obstreperous. ” 
“Oh dear me. What shall I do? I can’t catch 
my breath ! I ’m all wound up in my skirts. ” 

“There you are, Mrs. Hastings. Now keep your 
seat while I hand up your daughter. ” 

“Oh dear, oh dear. I’m afraid. What if he 
should throw back his trunk. I shall die, I shall 
die of fright. Oh dear me. ” 

Lord Neverskeen and Ruby saw her awful predica- 
ment and laughed her out of it as the elephant got 
under way. 

“If it hadn’t been for you,” she declared to Lord 
Neverskeen afterwards, going up the Nile, “ I should 
have died of fright and nothing could have prevented 
it. You take Ruby to the Citadel tomorrow. I 
shall be sick if I try to do so much!” 

“Oh, no, Mrs. Hastings, I will assure you if you 
go you shall have ample pay for going. The view 
from the Citadel is world famous. There is not 
much walking. The carriages leave us very near,” 
and thus Angy was persuaded and towards sunset 
the coming day the party enters the inner court of 
the Citadel. 


124 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


Looking upon the terrace before them they behold 
the Alabaster Mosque begun by Mohammed Ali, 
the founder of the present Egyptian dynasty. 

“Oh! oh! oh!” cried Mrs. Hastings, “what a 
beautiful structure! What are those spindle-like 
things that run up into the air so high?” 

“Those are minarets, Mrs. Hastings,” said Lord 
Neverskeen. “The architecture of the building is 
Saracenic. When the foundations of its walls were 
being laid the planet Mars, which the Arabs called 
Kahir, or ‘the Victorious,’ crossed the meridian of 
the new city. So the Caliph called it ‘Kahira’ from 
which the name Cairo comes. Gloomy memories 
haunt this place. It was here,” said Lord Nevers- 
keen, “in 1811, I think, that by the order of Mo- 
hammed Ali, the Mamelukes, his political enemies, 
were massacred. He invited them to a banquet, 
being planned to dispel suspicion, but when the 
guests were once inside the fortress they were cut 
down like grass before the scythe and were left in 
one writhing mass save one who escaped by spurring 
his horse into the ravine below. ” 

“Oh dear, the smelling salts. Oh, I can’t stand 
excitement. What a dreadful thing ! What a dread- 
ful thing.” 

“Mrs. Hastings, I beg a thousand pardons for 
rehearsing the scenes of by gone days. It is the 
present we must take care of. Let me call your 
attention to the beautiful view. First is the city 
itself which has been the capital one thousand 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


125 


years. It has over four hundred thousand inhabi- 
tants. Those minarets, of which you can see so 
many, adorn the numberless mosques contained 
within the limits of the city. Then comes the grand 
old Nile. Then looking still farther, you get a fine 
view of the Pyramids. Cheops, four hundred and 
eighty-two feet high, is the most stupendous. It 
does not look it from this vantage, does it. Miss 
Hastings?” 

“It certainly does not, Lord Neverskeen.” 

“I’ve been looking and wondering what all those 
pipes are, coming out of the houses, ” said Mrs. 
Hastings. 

“Those are a sort of ventilator to capture the 
north wind.” 

“Well, well, well.” 

“But, mother, see the glory of the setting sun. 
Look at the glint on the alabaster. See the silver 
tips of the minarets pointing to the sky. Ah, land 
of the past is this — land of the Sphinx, symbol of 
eternity. ” 

Under this magic spell she stood until the first 
faint light of the moon peered upon the city, her 
eyes affixed to the drama of past centuries. 

She roused herself and Lord Neverskeen beheld her. 

“Sweet child of God,” he thought, as the twilight 
hour spread its protecting folds about her. 

“Oh, oh, what a dreadful noise. Oh my ears, 
my ears. I never shall hear again,” and Lord 
Neverskeen ’s reverie was over. 


im 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


The world as it is came back to him with a rush 
and he was beside Mrs. Hastings at once in her 
dilemma. 

“I am very, very sorry for you, I should have 
realized the booming of the cannon would have 
startled you. ” 

“Startled me! I am almost frightened to death. 
Let ’s go before another one goes off. ” 

“There won’t be another one, Mrs. Hastings. 
That one must have awakened the echoes of the 
Mokattam hills.” 

“ Where are they ? Lord — Lord — well — ’ ’ 

“Neverskeen, Mrs. Hastings.” 

Ruby smiled in her own bewitching way at the 
whole episode and soon the travellers were on their 
way to their floating home on the Nile. 

“See, our travelling companions are already 
boarding the boat. I consider myself very fortunate 
in being able to bunch up such a delightful company 
of friends,” and Angy, puflBng from her exertion, 
steps on board the river craft, declaring to Ruby 
that “Lord Neverskeen had ushered them into a 
haven of rest for which she was very, very thank- 
ful.” 

“Mrs. Hastings, allow me, ” says Lord Neverskeen, 
“Lady Nerooski, these are our honored guests, 
Mrs. Hastings and her daughter. Miss Hastings of 
Montecito, California.” 

“How do you do. Lady — what did you say?” 
said Angy. 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


127 


“Lady Nerooski, mother.” 

“We appreciate Lord Neverskeen’s courtesy to 
us in having us of the party, Lady Nerooski. ” 

“Here is a bunch of letters for you, Miss Hast- 
ings. ” 

“Has Hiram written. Ruby? Oh dear me, do 
look. See if he says anything about pickled limes. 
I shall die. ” 

“He says, mother, for us to make our plans to 
stay a year from the time we left America. ” 

“Oh, Ruby! I can’t stand it. I never can. I 
know I can’t. It won’t do. Ruby. That’s just 
what makes separations in families. He’s already 
getting indifferent. ” 

“Oh, mother, mother. Let me read.” 

“ I don ’t care. I don ’t care what he says. That ’s 
what it will end with,” and Ruby read: 

“ ‘Now you are over there, Angy, don’t think of 
coming back until Ruby is thoroughly rested and 
restored to perfect health. Of course they are very 
lonely at home without you and I miss you, Angy, 
more than I dare say. ’ ” 

“I feel better. Ruby. Oh dear, I don’t feel a bit 
tired now. I ’ve heard from Hiram. ” 

“Here’s a letter from Jack Templeton, mother. 
One from Eva and Claude and Mrs. Croby. One 
from Mrs. Montgomery and Mr. Walton, Paul 
Stacy, Suky, Aunt Rebecca and everybody, I guess. 
I shall have to save them to read in the morning. ” 


XXVII 


N ext morning found them in the best 
of spirits. It is near sailing time. 
The two turbaned pilots are at the 
wheel. The reis is standing in the bow 
of the boat, his watch in hand. The nilometer 
registers plenty of water for a start. 

“What can we be waiting for?” says Angy. 

The whistle commences to blow and keeps on 
blowing. 

“My ears! Oh, my ears. Ruby. What is the 
matter? WThat can be the trouble?” 

“Dr. McCrady and Rev. Dr. Fantoskin are among 
the missing,” said Lord Neverskeen, coming up. 
“ They are whistling to call them, ” and after fifteen 
minutes of bedlum, a dragoman was left to take 
them to the railway station. The boat started 
without them, tying up to a post at the nearest 
point to the first railway station to await the delin- 
quents, who would then have a two-mile donkey 
ride to reach the boat. 

The mosques and minarets of Cairo faded away 
and a new life was before our travellers — a panorama 
of ancient and modern Egypt. The clouds were 
soft and like those of a New England landscape. 
l28 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


129 


Angy stood motionless gazing at the retreating 
Pyramids, those wonderful tombs of marvellous 
engineering skill that for thousands of years have 
stood as enduring monuments to a people whose works 
will still continue to live after them down through 
the ages. 

“Mother, dear,” called Ruby, “come here and 
sit down with me. I’m afraid you will get too tired. 
These deck chairs are very comfortable. Try this 
one. ” 

Every now and then they passed a typical Egyp- 
tian village of low houses constructed of a substance 
which looked like the hardened mud of the river 
bank. 

A few palms scattered through the little settlement 
formed the only shade. The water carriers attracted 
Angy. 

“What are they doing. Ruby, with those poles 
and bags that when they are lifted up seem so round 
and full and when they come back are so limp. ” 

“Those are weights at the top of the poles, mother, 
to help the fell§^hin lift their buckets up to the 
trough above, and so on in the same way until the 
water is raised high enough for irrigation purposes. 
These queer kinds of devices are called shadufs and 
represent the quaint means of carrying water from 
the Nile.” 


XXVIII 


T he second afternoon the El-Khedevie 
anchored in mid-stream and they heard 
the call of the boatmen and the splash- 
ing of the water as the agile men 
waded to and from shore with baskets of coal, which 
they dumped in the row boats to bring to the 
steamer. 

Every cloud had disappeared from the sky. 

From four o’clock tea until first dinner call at 
seven it was ideally beautiful. 

The palm trees were more graceful, the view up 
river seemed to expand as the twilight hours drew 
near, and as the prow of their good ship parted the 
waters on her outward trip south, it seemed to Ruby 
that they were going backward into a world so old 
that they would almost find themselves at the 
beginning of history. 

As the sun sent its slant rays across the river just 
before it dropped behind the western horizon, the 
nearly full moon was already high in the heavens. 

Her silvery light mingled with the magnificent 
after-glow of the sunset shed a halo over all that no 
human words can picture. They watched the colors 
deepen. Just back of a low sand colored cliff on the 
130 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


131 


east, the sky was an indescribable blue which blended 
into violet. 

Then to the south and west the little boat sails 
stood out clear against the orange and gold. 

The coloring softened until the river lay before 
and around them with its wonderful reflections, like 
a surface of glimmering silver. 

Just after passing Bibeh the boatman drew up to 
the river bank where they were to be sheltered for 
the night. With huge wooden mallets they drove 
the wooden stake into the sand of the river bank, 
threw a rope over each at the bow and stern and they 
were anchored for the night. The tall palms stood 
as sentinels along the shore, the stars glimmered, and 
the Queen of the Night guarded the ancient water 
way while all on board slept. 

Just before sunrise they again started on their 
way, but the most shallow part of the river was before 
them, and it was a question how long they would 
be in passing. 

There was a fleet of felflka laden with sugar-cane, 
grain, etc., directly in the channel. 

The dragoman sent for the captain of the port and 
the process of clearing the channel began. 

The water was so shallow that the dusky sailors 
would leap into the river and with their magnificent 
human strength, take the anchor up and carry it to 
a point of vantage, then their mates with the long 
boat hooks would run along the outer sides of these 
queer water craft, with their winged sails and push 


132 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


the boat around. Perhaps the bronze figures of 
various hues would unite their physical strength by 
bending their backs under the sides of a boat to 
assist their fellows with boat hooks above, to push a 
boat out of our way. 

While the hours were passing by this delay, a 
dhahabiyeh passed up river with Old Glory at the 
mast head. 

Our national emblem never looked more beautiful. 

“Oh Ruby, what a homesick sight. The stars 
and stripes, how pretty they look. How nice it 
would be if Hiram was only along, then we could 
stay on forever, journeying from place to place in 
one of those floating palaces. ” 


XXIX 


A t Minyeh, while coaling, a dragoman 
and two of the trusty boat crew went 
ashore with some of the party. 

Mrs. Hastings busied herself buying 
stamps at the post office, then they went to the 
sugar factory. 

There were car-loads of the purplish cane outside. 
The process of securing the molasses and sugar 
seemed simple. The cane goes in on a sort of mov- 
able sidewalk. The juice is squeezed out and runs 
off into a tank while the pulp is wheeled away on 
another movable sidewalk up grade to be dumped 
into cars, for fuel. They saw the vats where the 
liquid was boiled. 

“Twenty-five hundred men work day and night,” 
said the dragoman. “Twelve hundred bags a day 
are ready for shipment. ” 

“ Oh Ruby, if I could send a bag to Hiram. Don ’t 
you think it would be possible?” said she, turning 
to the dragoman. 

“It would cost more than it is all worth, Mrs. 
Hastings.” 

“I don’t mind that,” said she, her eyes sparkling. 
“ Wouldn ’t Hiram be pleased. Ruby ? ” 
l33 


134 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


Angy stepped lightly on to the El-Khedevie after 
her novel venture and sure enough one special 
package went its way addressed to “Hiram Hast- 
ings, Montecito, California,” weighing over two 
hundred and fifty pounds. 

“You had better rest now, mother, for we go 
ashore again today at Beni-Hasan. ” 

As they near the river bank where they take 
donkeys for Beni-Hasan, the shrill whistle of the 
approaching boat brings a mob of scrambling, 
yelling, howling natives down to the shore. 

When at last the boat is tied, and the dragoman 
has made satisfactory arrangements with the sheik 
of the donkey-boys and two armed officers who go 
along order is brought out of chaos. The party 
still remained on the boat until the donkeys were 
saddled. 

Shall we then look upon Mrs. Hastings preparing 
to take her first donkey ride? 

“Donkey very good,” said the native not under- 
standing her fright. 

“ I don T want to go. Ruby. I shan T see anything 
but this donkey’s ears if I do. ” 

“Never mind, mother. All fear will leave you 
in a few minutes. ” 

“Yankee doodle donkey,” said the boy. “Don- 
key very good,” and Angy laughed in spite of her- 
self and they were off, one boy alongside of her and 
the other back of her urging forward the heavily 
laden beast. 

All went well until the limestone cliff was all but 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


135 


reached, when to Mrs. Hastings’ discomfiture the 
animal stumbled and fell, Angy landing in a helpless 
heap a little to one side. 

“Why did I come? Oh Lord, Lord. ” 

“Take my hand, Mrs. Hastings. This is such a 
pity. There you are with no bones broken,” said 
Lord Neverskeen comfortingly. “I will stay along- 
side you myself, going back. ” 

“Oh, what a sight I must be. My hair — ” 

“Never mind, mother, try and forget.” 

“We shall have a little climb in sandy walking 
after leaving the donkeys, Mrs. Hastings. The 
tombs are cut in the limestone cliffs and they are 
now like chambers. The bodies were formerly 
buried below. The view from these cliff tombs is 
beautiful. ” 

“Oh my breath. Ruby, but it’s worth the climb, 
isn’t it?” 

After one long lingering look they started back 
down the steep, sandy slope, back to the donkeys, 
then again across the plain past the cemetery sacred 
to cats, reaching the river bank for the gloaming of 
the sunset. 

The stately palms gave a fine background for the 
silvery river and gorgeous colors. 

Lord Neverskeen, true to his promise to Mrs. 
Hastings, was always by her side pointing out some- 
thing of interest at every turn. 


XXX 


T he next morning was spent writing 
home letters. In the afternoon the 
party met in the deck room enjoying 
the changes in river scenery, passing 
the bend in the river where the wind usually blows 
a gale and the sand piles itself up against the cliffs 
beyond. 

The highest cliff on the east bank, being 800 feet 
high and eleven miles long, seemed to be of a lime- 
stone formation in horizontal layers, the openings 
in the rocks once having been tombs, mosques or 
perhaps a monastery. 

Another sharp turn to the west, the high mud 
banks grow lower and lower and night finds the El- 
Khedevie tethered to the bank at Monfalut, ar- 
riving at Assiut about noon, this important native 
town of upper Egypt. 

Ruby left with Lady Nerooski and four gentlemen 
of the party with their dragoman for the tombs on 
the side of the Libyan Range. They climbed up to 
the wolf catacombs, as Assiht was the town that 
worshipped the wolf. Up the steep path they went 
to the large mummy tombs cut out of the solid rock 
five thousand years ago. 


136 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


137 


The chambers were larger but not as interesting 
as at Beni-Hasan. They were up seven or eight 
hundred feet above the town and the beautiful 
view well paid them for their climb. 

The broad valley of the Nile, now green with the 
grain crops, was spread out before them right up to 
the very base of the lime rock ridge. 

Assiut with its dirt colored houses, with now and 
then other colors mixed in, lay at their feet at the 
end of the roadway they crossed, her mosques and 
minarets adding to the picturesque effect. 

Away beyond was the great mountain of Upper 
Egypt, which, in the windings of the river, they 
passed the day before. 

As they descended, they passed the graveyard 
with its domed tombs and took their donkeys back 
to town, where they joined the rest of the party at 
the Bazaar, a narrow street covered overhead, with 
the little shops on all sides. It was so fascinating. 
Mrs. Hastings made a ten-cent purchase. 

Signor Itello and the Honorable Samuel Sorokan 
evidently wanted to dash into town in style so they 
shouted, “yaller, yaller,” and away they went, 
Angy’s donkey catching the inspiration and on 
went the cavalcade at a mad rush. Lord Neverskeen 
in full pursuit. Mrs. Hastings, none the worse for 
her venture, went with the rest to the Mission 
School at four o’clock. 

As they approached the children were singing 
“Greenland’s icy mountain.” 


138 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


j^They have bright interesting faces, dark hair and 
olive complexions of various hues, wearing loose 
garments and the fez. 

The party visited the private classes in separate 
buildings, there being about seven hundred boys and 
girls, from eight to twenty, studying at the Mission. 
Then they went to the chapel for the service. 

Back of the school was a beautiful garden of 
palms. 

A cow was patiently turning the water wheel to 
draw up the water for irrigation. 

“Poor dumb animal,*’ sighed Angy as she looked 
upon the blindfolded creature patiently trudging 
round and round until night should gain for her her 
release. 

“That canvas canopy over her head was humane, ” 
said Angy on her way back, “but what a primitive 
custom. Oh Ruby, I’m a sight. Just look at the 
dust on my clothes, but I’m glad I have seen all I 
have. ” 

The silvery sheen of the night played its legends 
on the heart, and the pitch pipe of thought was 
wrested from their minds as sleep, the sweet mes- 
senger of life, wrapped the soft folds of oblivion about 
them with the ringing notes of a magician growing 
fainter and fainter until darkness played the patrol 
of honor about its glorious hosts. 

Monday was a restful day. The party visited 
among themselves and in passing noted the little 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


189 


villages along the east bank with the usual low 
angular houses and palms. 

The buffalo cows were driven down into the water 
and were contentedly chewing their cud. 

Farther on grey herons were strutting around on 
the low sand level and as the evening shadows 
wrapped themselves about our travellers they an- 
chored at Sohag and were interested in watching 
the water carriers. 

There were three or four piles of rocks just a few 
feet from shore. The men, with bared legs, stood 
in the water and with a skin dipper filled the goat 
skin water bags, tied them up and put them on 
donkeys backs and they clambered up the steep bank. 
Women filled their heavy earthen jars and with the 
assistance of a sister carrier adjusted their burdens 
on their heads and glided away into the dusk. 

“Oh Ruby, what strange, strange things are 
happening every day. I wonder if I couldn’t 
balance one of those bottles on my head. ” 


XXXI 


I don’t advise you ladies to go to Abydos,” said 
Lord Neverskeen. “It is already late in the 
day to start on this long donkey ride of seven- 
teen miles. The path is jagged and uneven 
at first, then long stretches on the highway there 
is only a donkey or camel path, then I am sure it 
would be after night fall before we could be on our 
boat again. I have already taken the trip and will 
be only too glad to remain here with you. ” 

“Oh dear me. Lord Neverskeen, I am so disap- 
pointed. ” 

“ Be seated, ladies, and let me tell you about it, 
as soon as the rest of the party are off. The pious 
Egyptian wished nothing more than to have his 
remains buried at ancient Abydos, for here tradition 
says was the grave of Osiris, the chief god of Abydos. 
His wife, Isis, and son, Horus, appear with him in 
the well preserved carvings and paintings found on 
the walls of the Temple. The splendid temple of 
Sethos I. was cleared from drifting sands in 1859. 
The pillars in the hypostyle halls are large and massive. 
There were formally seven sanctuaries dedicated to 
different gods. The reliefs dating from the reign 
of Sethos I. are considered to be among the finest 
Egyptian sculpture of any age. The coloring is 
140 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


141 


brilliant even now after having been placed there 
over 3,000 years ago. The Temple was completed 
by Rameses II, the Alexander the Great of his time. 
He appears often in the mural paintings. The 
hieroglyphics are wonderfully well preserved. We 
are to thank Marietta Bey for the bringing to light 
of this marvellous ruin. The Gallery of the Kings 
in the south wing is of very great importance as there 
on the wall ife inscribed a correct list of rulers from 
Menes, the first king of Egypt, down to Sethos. 
This list has a great historical importance as it assists 
in fixing the order of succession of Egyptian kings. 
The Temple of Rameses II is near by and is also 
dedicated to Osiris. Although now in ruins every- 
thing gives evidence of the pains Rameses II took to 
make this an enduring monument of great beauty. 
The costly material of red and black granite, sand- 
stone, limestone, and alabaster, were used in its 
construction. The mural decorations in delicate 
low relief were very beautiful. The reliefs, ‘en 
ecreux’ thus called, are cut out instead of raised.’’ 

“Oh! dear me. Lord Neverskeen, how can you do 
it.^ I tried to remember one special sentence to tell 
Hiram to let him see how my memory is improving. 
Now let me tell it over to you. Lord Neverskeen. 
At a place called Osis,” she began, “was the grave 
of Abydos. His wife, Horus, appears with him in 
the carvings. ” 

Lord Neverskeen smiled genially and Angy pleased 
over her supposed triumph started out again. 


142 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


“The coloring is brilliant even now after having 
been placed there over three hundred years ago.*’ 
Her most gracious host smiled deeper and catching 
her breath, Mrs Hastings jumped hastily to her next 
and final remarks in one grand climax. 

“The Temple of Marietta Bey is one vast ruin.” 

“Don’t tax yourself any more, Mrs. Hastings, 
over what I have said. ” 

“But won’t Hiram be pleased to find what travel 
has done for me?” 

“Certainly he will, Mrs. Hastings. “Won’t your 
daughter favor us with a song. Mr. Walton tells 
me she has a fine voice. ” 

“Ruby, do sing,” says Angy. “Sing the ‘Angels 
Serenade’ or ‘Way Down on the Swanney River, ’ 
Hiram likes that,” and Ruby seated herself at the 
piano. 

Lord Neverskeen sat motionless. The clear, 
sweet notes of the singer entranced him. 

Hark! the music is caught on shore. The caval- 
cade of donkeys is approaching nearer and nearer as 
the twilight deepens. 

Ruby next sings “Home, Sweet, Home.” 

Lord Neverskeen passes his hand across his eyes 
unseen but as the last verse is ended, Angy breaks 
down entirely with a terrible wail of anguish. 

“Oh dear me. I never can — I never can stay 
away from Hiram. Oh dear, oh dear. ” 

“Mrs. Hastings, let me get you some Apollinaris 
water,” and Ruby, not appearing to notice began 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


143 


singing, “God, Save the Queen.” Lord Neverskeen 
striking in with Ruby, his clear tenor voice blending 
with hers and when the party boarded the El- 
Khedevie, they shouted as with one voice. 

“Bravo! bravo! Don’t stop. Let’s all sing 
‘America,’ ” said Dr. McCrady as the last ringing 
notes of salute died away in the gathering gloom and 
the very echoes caught the glad notes of freedom’s 
call and can we say what a contrast for the poor 
fellahin toiling from sun to sun in the ignorance of 
labor. 

“Miss Hastings, sit down now, I am afraid I asked 
too much. You look pale from your exertions. I 
did not realize you had such a voice. I thank you. ” 

With the faint glimmer of fading day the party 
tired and weary retired for the night to awake next 
morning refreshed and eager for the day’s pleasure. 


XXXII 


I ’M going to write a nice long letter to Hiram 
tomorrow Ruby,” and let us read over her 
shoulder as she writes. 

“My dear Hiram: — ^Ruby sang ‘Home, 
Sweet Home’ last night to Lord Neverskeen. I felt 
so bad that I cried. It brought it all back to me. 
How far I was from you, dear, and Pansy, Rebecca 
and Suky. I was trying to make the best of the long 
separation. You will be pleased to know how much 
information I am gleaning as I rub up against 
educated people. Even Lord Neverskeen has seen 
how my memory is coming back. It won ’t interest 
you any what facts I am going to write only in the 
realization of my great advance in culture. The 
Temple of Marietta Bey lays in ruins at Abydos and 
Horus is a wonderful Prophet, son of Alexander, the 
Great, and Rameses V was the first great ruler of 
Egypt I believe. If I have got this last wrong, don ’t 
ever tell and there won’t anybody ever know. 
Lord Neverskeen is tremendously interested in 
Ruby, I can see. He saved me from a fall at Assifit. 
I hope you will get the sugar all right, Hiram. Of 
course it’s a long way to send it but it won’t be half 
as sweet as you are, dear, but it shows very well my 
144 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


145 


good intentions; just the same as if you said you 
wanted to pass me some pickled limes with your own 
hands. When I get home I will tell you more in 
detail about what I have seen and you can see better 
how I have changed. Don’t tell Rebecca Ann. 
Let it be a surprise to her. I think we leave some- 
time tomorrow for Palestine or Philse, I can ’t just 
remember. Do you think we better go to Paris 
before we go to Greece, or try Switzerland? Write 
in your next letter. Ruby says tell Dad she is 
improving and will write soon, so good-by, dear 
Hiram, and be sure and let me know when you get 
the bag of sugar and how it tastes. With lots and 
lots of kisses from your loving and affectionate 
Angy.” 

As the letter was finished they passed under the 
bridge at Nag’ Hamadeh which is only opened twice a 
day. 

Many sharp turns in the river kept the party on 
the alert and constantly expecting something in this 
land so, so old, and again, as the night’s shadows 
descended, the good boat anchored seven or eight 
miles from Keneh under the shadow of the dum 
palms. 

Bright and early the following morning, before 
the sun was too high, we heard Lord Neverskeen 
say, “Now, Mrs. Hastings, our dragoman insists 
that every lady in the party must go ashore, as it is 
only a half hour ride over a flat country to Dendera. 
The donkeys are fine here, ” and so it was a few min- 


146 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


utes later Mrs. Hastings and Ruby joined the rest 
of the party. Lord Neverskeen remembering Mrs . 
Hastings’ mishap at Beni-Hasan, did not leave her 
side, for Ruby was so worried lest her mother fall 
again. 

Lord Neverskeen explained that the temple here 
was dedicated to Hathor and her husband Horus, 
Horus being the son of Isis and Osiris. 

On entering, they found themselves in the Great 
Vestibule with twenty-four columns with four heads 
of Hathor at the top of each. 

“This is the grandest temple we have visited as 
far as impressiveness of structure goes, but I don’t 
think, Mrs. Hastings, that the carvings are as fine as 
at Abydos. ” 

“Ruby, how I wish Hiram was here.” 

“ We must write to Dad, and tell him all about it. 
Lady Nerooski is going to see where the jewels used 
to be kept. Do you think you are equal to going 
down the narrow stairway and crawl through the 
small opening to see the wonderful original bas-relief 
of Cleopatra, mother?” 

“No, Ruby, I should lose my breath, but you 
go,” so with lighted candle. Ruby left her mother 
for a few minutes and on the way out looked into 
the room only entered once a year by the king. 

The New Year began in July when Cereus arose 
with the sun, Cereus being the holy star of Isis. 

This temple was completed about the time of 
Christ’s life, which is a modern structure in this land 
where centuries seem to count only as seconds. 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


147 


It is, however, built over the site of a much older 
temple. 

“Now, Mrs. Hastings, we must all go on to the 
roof and see the little room where the circular zodiac 
of the heavens, which was cut out and sent to Paris, 
was located. Then we will have a nice easy ride 
back to the boat. ” 


xxxni 


N ext we find our party in Luxor, they 
having taken the train from Keneh. 

“Lord Neverskeen, Ruby tells me if 
we go across the river we must ride six- 
teen miles on donkeys. I never can do it and Ruby 
won’t leave me.” 

“Allow me to plan for you, Mrs. Hastings. While 
the rest of the party are visiting the Tombs of the 
Kings on the other side of the river, we will, if it is 
your pleasure, take a drive to Karnak. ” 

“What is there?” 

“Let me tell you something of the great temple 
of Karnak. One author says it is the noblest effort 
of architectural magnificence ever produced by the 
hand of man. Its stone walls reveal to us the history 
of the Thebian kings from time of its foundation by 
Usertsen I (twenty-six or twenty-seven hundred 
years before Christ) until it reached the grandeur of 
an imperial edifice. At first a small sanctuary in the 
centre of a large temple, it increased in 2,500 years 
to a complete city of temples giving us an almost 
uninterrupted course of events and an interesting 
scale of measurements for the history of the whole 
of the New Egyptian Monarchy from its origin in 
148 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


149 


the Old Monarchy down to the decline under the 
Roman dominion. While the Egyptians aimed at 
utihty and stabihty, they always sought to combine 
the ornamental and beautiful in their architecture. 
Their massive monuments were colored with un- 
dying hues, and pohshed hke jewels. They drew 
their architectural designs largely from the vegetable 
world. Rehgion and surrounding nature were the 
principal sources of inspiration in the conception of 
temples. We can trace the developement and 
nature of their rehgious structures by acquainting 
ourselves with their mode of worship and the physi- 
cal geography as the Egyptians regarded it. They 
beheved that Heaven and Earth were both supported 
by pillars, so they carried the idea out in the archi- 
tecture of their temples, by having columns to sup- 
port the roofs of their temples. These were first 
fashioned from trunks of trees which at their festivals 
they ornamented with garlands of lotus buds, flowers, 
palm branches, papyrus plant and with wreaths. 
Later\>n when stone pfllars took the place of the 
wooden columns the carved images in the sohd stone 
replaced the real flowers and plants. The animal 
types were introduced, when rehgious sentiment 
invested objects with a sacred character. Now I 
am not going to tell you anything more, Mrs. Hast- 
ings, until we arrive at the Temple in the morning. ” 
The following day there was a hazy atmosphere, 
which fortimately subdued the hot rays of the sun. 


150 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


Quickly the spirited horses guided by their tur- 
baned driver in flowing garments, brought the white 
canopied carriage with Lord Neverskeen, Mrs. 
Hastings and her daughter to the Avenue of the 
Sphinx, which was formerly bordered by a double 
row of sphinx, over 600 in number. 

On a nearer approach to the temple, they were 
first impressed with the two enormous propylons, 
which are characteristic of Egyptian architecture. 
On the heavy cornice which surmounts this truncated 
pyramid is the sculptured symbol of a winged sun, 
or scarabseus, a beautiful emblem, to adopt Glid- 
den’s description of Providence overshadowing the 
land of the Nile. 

After walking through this colossal gateway they 
enter an open court two hundred and seventy-five 
feet by three hundred and twenty-five feet with its 
double line of columns down the centre. 

Lord Neverskeen now takes them to the wonderful 
Hypostyle Hall, the largest room ever constructed 
by the Egyptians, being three hundred and forty by 
one hundred and seventy feet. 

The forest of columns which supported the roof, 
were the most massive ever used. 

The twelve pillars forming the central avenue 
were seventy feet from the ground to the support 
of the architrave, eleven feet ten inches in diameter, 
and thirty -three feet in circumference. 

At the right and left of the central avenue, were 
one hundred and twenty-two columns, thirty-three 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


151 


feet lower than those in the central aisle. Thus a 
clearstory of stone-grated windows was erected 
between the flat roof, the lower and higher portions 
thus lighting the hall. 

“Lord Neverskeen, who planned this wonderful 
building?” asked Ruby. 

“The hall was built by Seti I, but some say the 
glory of conceiving the plan belongs to Rameses I. 
Let us sit down here and rest, then we will look at 
the bas-reliefs on the external north, and south walls, 
which open out from the hall. Egyptian sculpture 
seems to have reached its height here where the wars 
and triumphs are so vividly represented. The general 
construction of the temple is symmetrical, with the ex- 
ception of a lateral wing constructed by Amenophis 
III. The gigantic monoliths and pylons of different 
dates, add to the dignity of the sacred edifice. 

“If by the construction of this sacred pile, it was 
intended that the Egyptian should feel his own 
nothingness and be awed by the will and power 
of God he could not be impressed more than at 
Karnak. 

“With consummate skill the beautiful law of cur- 
vature was used in the construction of this massive 
architectural wonder, the finest tools, and most 
enduring colors have given to us a noble legacy of 
people who spared not themselves, but built for future 
generations. 

“Every temple was orinated, that is, set so at a 
certain time each day, the sun entered the western 


152 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


portal and traversed the whole length of the temple 
until the wondrous light touched the sanctuary. 

“I know you must be getting tired, so we will 
leave this temple, the largest ever erected in Egypt, 
it covering nearly twice the area of St. Peter’s at 
Rome, and more than four times that of any now 
existing cathedrals of medieval times.” 

“This has been a red letter day for us, ” said Ruby. 

“I have enjoyed it so much, I must write to 
Hiram and tell him how much you have done for us. ” 

“I am only sorry, Mrs. Hastings, that the new 
hotel at Assouan is not completed, so you could go 
there, and to the island of Philae, but I know it 
would be too hard for you both, especially as the 
Khamsin is likely to blow soon.” 

“I never could stand that. When do we go back 
to Cairo?” 

“After resting tomorrow, we will return by train 
in the afternoon, so as to arrive in the cool of the 
evening. 

“Then I shall get another letter from Hiram.” 


XXIV 


I ’M so glad to be back, Ruby, in Cairo. It seems 
like home here at the Grand Continental. I 
shall never forget how I saw Lord Neverskeen 
approaching the first time he came to call upon 
us. What a grand appearance he made. I like 
him. Ruby. I think your father would approve. ” 
“Letters for Mrs. and Miss Hastings,” said the 
servant and Angy jumped to her feet as quickly as 
she could in her excitement. 

“Look at Hiram’s first. Ruby. Who are the rest 
from?” 

“Jack and—” 

“Oh dear me. Another letter from Jack Temple- 
ton. What a persistent man he is. Don ’t give him 
any encouragement. I can’t but see the difference 
between him and Lord Neverskeen. Mr. Temple- 
ton’s ardent pursuit of course is very different from 
our new friend. He is more retiring — ^more gentle- 
manly — ^more thoughtful in the httle things so 
necessary for the making of true happiness. ” 

Ruby did not hear all. She was deep in thought 
over the ardent words that Jack penned. It ran 
thus: 


153 


154 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


“Ruby, I can’t stand this long separation from 
you. It is breaking my heart. You are always in 
my thoughts. I cannot express my great regard 
for you in words. You only know how I have 
followed you across country and back and with one 
word from you now I would board the first and 
fastest liner that would span the space between us. ” 

At this point she was interrupted by her mother’s 
impatient call. 

“Ruby, where’s Hiram’s letter?” 

“Here it is, mother.” 

“Don’t answer Mr Templeton’s letters. Ruby. 
That’s the only sure way of telling him you do not 
care for his attentions. ” 

A servant at this untimely moment in the conversa- 
tion passes in Lord Neverskeen’s card. 

“There, Ruby. He is the one for you. ” 

Ruby left her mother breaking the seal of Hiram ’s 
letter to see her not unwelcome visitor. 

“Oh dear me. What can this mean? Who is 
the vixen? Oh, I shaU die — I shall die,” and she 
picked up the letter from the floor where she had 
flung it. “Hiram receiving letters saying I am false 
to him. Oh, I shall die — I shall die. Oh, those 
smelling salts, where are they?” and in her ex- 
citement she picked up a bottle of cologne through 
mistake. The stopper was loose and in a twinkling 
her whole dress was saturated with the liquid. 

“Oh my soul and body. Wdiat have I done? 
What have I done? My dress is ruined. Oh 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


155 


Hiram, oh Hiram! Why did he write me anything 
about it. Oh dear, oh dear. What a terrible thing. 
Oh my head — my head, — this awful scent. Oh my 
dress — my dress. Who could have made up such 
a dreadful lie. Poor Hiram! Poor Hiram! in a 
strange city away from home and dear ones receiving 
such a document as he says he has. What a damper 
on my trip to know Hiram has received such a 
shock. Oh dear, oh dear. He writes that they say 
they have proof positive that what they wrote was 
true.” 

The letter dropped to the floor and Angy fell 
back on the couch in a faint and it was in this posture 
Ruby found her mother. She smelt the odor as she 
entered. She saw the discarded letter and bent 
hastily over the prostrate form. Her mother seemed 
to be breathing regularly and she snatched the letter 
from the floor and read hastily with consternation 
on her face. 

“Poor mother. Who has written such dreadful 
things about her? The letter was anonymous. Of 
course father must know that. But who wrote it? 
What could have been the motive of the one that 
penned it? Poor Dad! Poor Dad.” She spoke 
aloud and Angy, turning restlessly, opened her eyes 
and beheld Ruby in her perplexed posture, the 
letter open in her hands. 

“Oh Ruby, Ruby. What does it mean? What 
can it mean?” 

She sat upright on the couch. Her eyes were 
wild and glassy. 


156 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


“Oh, mother, dear. Calm yourself,” and she 
knelt at her feet. “Father don’t believe a word of 
it. You know Dad better than that. It would 
have been better if he had kept it to himself, but of 
course he was too full of its contents for that. ” 

“What can be the person’s motive who wrote it. 
Ruby?” 

“That we don’t know, mother, but if we never 
speak of it no one but the writer, ourselves and Dad 
will know of it. The composer of it is the only one 
hurt by it. Let me read Aunt Rebecca’s letter, 
mother. She always has a lot of wholesome news, ” 
and the seal was broken. 

“What did Lord Neverskeen have to say. Ruby?” 

“He came to ask us to take the trip to the Pyra- 
mids this afternoon. I told him we would be de- 
lighted to go. He will call at four o’clock.” 

“Oh, Ruby. What would he say if he knew of 
this?” 

“Don’t worry, mother, it will come out all right. 
You know yourself you are all right and Dad knows 
it. The jealous one that penned it is going to feel 
the worst. You just let me read Aunt Rebecca’s 
epistle and you will feel better. 

“Dear absent ones, — T don’t know how to 
begin. I never was so worked up in my life over 
anything as I was this morning when I got a 
funny letter written by an unknown hand decry- 
ing our Angy’s character.’ ” 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


157 


“Oh Ruby, Ruby, what shall I do? It is all over 
Montecito by this time. ” 

“Mother let me finish. ‘Hiram sent me a letter 
saying he had received a like got up contrivance. 
Now I don’t write this to worry either of you but 
for fear others might hear it and you in some way 
might get hold of it I thought I should make a clean 
breast of the whole dirty business. Mark you both, 
it is an anonymous affair got up by some jealous 
enemy, perhaps by some one that has heard of 
Ruby’s good fortime. Tell Angenette not to worry 
or think about it but go on as if nothing had been 
written and so forget it. 

Yours in haste, 

Rebecca Ann. 

P. S. Suky is down town this morning and does 
not know anything about the affair. — ^R. A.’ ” 
Ruby to please her mother pens a note to Mr. 
Templeton that afternoon which we shall see the 
result from in future writing. 


XXXV 



ND shall we start with the trio in imag- 
ination as the afternoon is waning? 


The day has been an ideal one. The 
.carriage is at the door and Lord Never- 


skeen helps his guests to their seats and the journey 
is begun. All swelldom seems to be abroad with 
the running sais going on before. 

Mrs. Hastings becomes very much interested as 
they cross the bridge over the Nile in the many and 
varied scenes and journeying along through the line 
of shading lebbek trees she forgets her trouble and 
once again wears the happy smile that Lord Nevers- 
keen seems so to admire. 

‘T am going to have you try a camel ride, Mrs. 
Hastings, for a short distance to the Pyramids 
later. ” 

“Well there,” says Angy. “How could I be 
afraid with you along. Oh, what will Hiram say 
when he finds out how smart I am getting,” and 
her face fairly beamed with the thought of it all. 

“Oh, Lord Neverskeen, I never can keep on this 
camel I shall be off ! I shall be off ! ” 

“Mrs. Hastings, I assure you, you shall be per- 
158 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


159 


fectly safe while I am near. Your daughter trusts 
me. The Arabs know their business. ” 

“Oh, Lord — Lord — ^what is that?” 

“That’s the Sphinx that has guarded the desert 
since time was. 

“Oh what a vacant stare! and yet what a gaze. 
Oh dear me, why don’t she look the other way. ” 

And Lord Neverskeen in spite of himself smiled 
and looked afar off into the sands of the desert, that 
unconquerable waste, home of the Nomads and 
gazelle, land of the mirage and camel train. 

“I have the secret of thy heart!” 

“Oh, dear,” he heard as he was suddenly roused 
from his reveries. “Oh dear, I can’t stand it!” 

“Why, Mrs. Hastings, what can I do for you?” 

“Oh dear! Oh dear! Take me away do. Lord — 
Lord Neverskeen, before those great boulders come 
down to bury us all alive. Oh, dear. It’s just such a 
place as we passed coming from California, crossing 
— what was it. Ruby? The heights of the War — 
something — what was it. Ruby?” 

“Wahsatch Mountains, mother.” 

“Let’s start back. Turn this animal around,” 
and the Arab with a look of frenzy at the ungovern- 
able lady, turned from the giant Pyramids and with 
a lunge the camel quickened its pace. It was a 
terrible moment for Mrs. Hastings. 

“Take me off! Take me off. Oh dear, oh dear. 
Oh my hairpins, my breath, my head — my heart. ” 

Lord Neverskeen coming up with Ruby ordered 
the speed slackened. 


160 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


Mrs. Hastings, powerless to pick herself together, 
presented a grotesque appearance as she neared the 
Mena House Hotel. 

Strapped as is the custom for such rides she could 
do nothing with her dishevelled hair. 

Not only hairpins, but side combs had left their 
sorrowful trail far behind on the sand dunes in this 
desert land. 

“I never shall take another ride like this, never,” 
she said, as she finally was released from the saddle. 

“It was very fortunate, Mrs. Hastings, that you 
did not release your grip from the straps or possibly 
you might have had something serious happen to 
you, when the camel took fright. As it is, you are 
not hurt. ” 

“Yes, Lord Neverskeen, but all the sand of the 
desert could not persuade me to try another ride like 
that. I am satisfied.” 


XXXVI 


sighed 


A nd this trip today is our last, 

Mrs. Hastings. 

“We will have as enjoyable a day 
as possible,” said Lord Neverskeen. 
“You want to look at rugs, more especially.” 
“Yes,” and off went the trio. 

“ Oh, how pretty, ” cried Angy. “ Don ’t you think 
Hiram would like one of these chains for his watch. 
Ruby?” 

“These are bracelets.” 

“But they could be fixed into a chain. I want 
to get him one. It would look foreign. ” 

The special chain in question was a string of 
Egyptian moonstones and was violet in color. 

“Oh dear me. Ruby, I just thought that people 
might think he was in half mourning if I got violet. 
I will take the turquoise blue one — ” and the decision 
was made so quickly that Ruby did not realize the 
change. She was picking up any number of cute 
remembrances for the children at Yanonalit, also 
an Egyptian buckle for Mrs. Croby and Lord Nevers- 
keen was assisting her. 


161 


162 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


“Give me that stickpin with the wreath on it,” 
said Angy, “and that card case. Oh dear me, the 
beast!” cried Mrs. Hastings, as a camel strode by 
dangerously near her. “Take me away from that 
camel. Lord Neverskeen! Oh, oh, oh, dear. He’s 
gone. Oh! I was so frightened. I never shall 
forget that dreadful experience going to the Pyra- 
mids. Ruby, I want an expensive rug for Hiram. 
One of those silk ones. I don’t mind paying $100 
for it.” 

“This one here is $500,” said Lord Neverskeen. 

“Five hundred. Well, it’s none too good for 
Hiram,” and she took it, having it sent over to the 
office of the Cunard Steamship Co., by Lord Nevers- 
keen ’s advice to await their coming later. 

“What will Hiram say when he sees it. I don’t 
want to stay any longer. Lord Neverskeen. I’m 
afraid there will be a letter from Hiram back at the 
hotel.” 

“You must be looking forward with pleasure for 
your trip through Palestine, Mrs. Hastings. You 
will be there for the Greek Easter. You will visit 
the Garden of Gethsemine and Mount of Olives and 
Mosque of Omar. To make your journey easy you 
should take a palanquin across the rough country.” 

“What’s that. Lord Neverskeen?” 

“It is a quaint way of being carried over the 
uneven paths. A sort of canopy-covered seat sup- 
ported by two mules who hold up the tugs, one in 
front and another in the rear. A muleteer rides a 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


163 


little donkey and leads the forward mule while 
another muleteer guides the other mule. It is the 
most comfortable possible way of going from place 
to place.” 

“Oh, dear, Lord Neverskeen, I never can. What 
if the mules should kick. Oh, Lord — Lord — if you 
were only going I shouldn’t be afraid, ” and back to 
the hotel they journeyed, Angy’s thoughts full of 
preparation she knew was to come and the wild 
haunting sensation that a proposed ride in a palan- 
quin had aroused. 

“Here’s your letter, mother. Be seated. Lord 
Neverskeen, while we read. Mother, Dad wants 
us to come home sooner. ” 

“Oh dear, oh dear. He’s afraid there’s some 
truth in the stories.” 

“Mother, dear, you forget.” 

“No, I haven’t. Ruby. I know just how he must 
feel about it all. ” 

“Just see what he writes, ‘I want you to drop 
your Palestine trip. It will tax the strength of both 
of you too much. Instead I think, you better take 
the boat from Alexandria back to the continent, 
stopping quite a while in Venice and spending all 
your summer among the beautiful scenery in Switzer- 
land and northern Europe. ’ 

“Oh, Ruby, stop — I can’t breathe. How can I 
get my new clothes to keep Hiram with if I don’t 
go to Damascus where — ” 

“It is Paris and London where we get those. 


164 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


mother. We will have ample time to purchase 
those in September and the early part of October. ” 

“But it will take a long time for you to get your 
trousseau. ” 

“Why, mother, I have no idea of getting one.” 

“But you must, Ruby. You will never get such 
a good chance again, never!” 

Lord Neverskeen looked grave and he still sat 
silent during the recital of the rest of the letter as 
Ruby read. 

“ ‘I want you to leave the Continent so you may 
be in Boston by the first of December. ’ ” 

“You must let Dr. McCrady know of the change 
in our plans. Ruby. Oh, Lord Neverskeen, what 
can we do without you.? We never can find our way. 
Never — never. Oh dear, oh dear. ” 

“I shall let you hear from me, Mrs. Hastings, from 
time to time. ” 

“Oh what shall I do? What shall I do?” and the 
time came for their departure. The train was al- 
ready snorting at the station and Mrs. Hastings was 
inconsolable. 

“I’m going way over to the boat with you,” said 
Lord Neverskeen. 

“Give me the smelling salts. Ruby! I never 
can. I never can stand it. ” 

“I wdll have a letter in waiting for you in Venice, 
Mrs. Hastings, telling you of my experiences in 
getting back to Cairo. ” 

“Oh, dear! Oh dear me! We never can forget 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


165 


your great kindness to us here, Lord Neverskeen, 
and when you come back to visit us I hope we can 
make you feel the same as I do. ” 

“Mrs. Hastings, I thank you. It will be the 
greatest pleasure in my life, I assure you, to do so. 
I want you to say to Mr. Walton for me, that I have 
enjoyed every minute of your stay. Meeting, as 
we did through a mutual friend, it broke down all 
the barriers that are apt to come with a first meeting.” 

“Oh dear! oh, dear!” cried Mrs. Hastings, as she 
shook his hand in parting on the boat. 

“Ruby, the smelling salts — ” and they looked 
upon Lord Neverskeen waving his hat to them from 
the open boat which would take him back to shore. 

“Oh, dear. Let me be still. Ruby,” she said at 
last as the retreating boat became as a speck on the 
watery highway. 

“What did he say to you when he held your hand 
so long. Ruby?” 

“Oh, mother, that would be telling,” she said 
teasingly. “Lie right down and rest and think of 
what is coming to us next.” 


XXXVII 


B OOOO!” and Mrs. Hastings sobbed her- 
self to sleep. 

It was not until old Vesuvius was in 
sight that she seemed herself again. 

“We want to go to Salerno and Amalphi. It will 
be a delightful change after you are rested from your 
long sea trip before we proceed on our journey. ” 
“Can’t we go tomorrow, Ruby?” 

“If you think we can be up in time to drive to the 
station for the early train to Salerno?” 

“Yes, Ruby, I feel I will if I retire early.” 

The clouds rolled back and an ideal day dawned 
for our travellers. An exceedingly beautiful pan- 
orama of sea, earth and sky was revealed to them. 

Mrs. Hastings and Ruby enjoyed their twelve- 
mile drive from Salerno to Amalphi and were ready 
for lunch and after a short rest again took their 
carriage back to Salerno over the same splendid 
road built in 1852 curving in and out with the irre- 
gular coast line, sometimes descending to the sea as 
a little village is approached, then again rising until 
on a bold headland, the road having been cut from 
the mountain side. 

The roadway is protected from the jagged rocks 
166 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


167 


below by a wall of tufa covered with stucco, which 
is most artistic. The watch towers, which were 
built to protect the bay from pirates, stand in their 
ruined beauty along the shore at intervals. The 
terraced vineyards way up the mountain side are 
marvellous. They were nearly all covered to pro- 
tect them from the wind and the cold. 

They were so luxuriant and showed the immense 
labor and time that it took to contract them. 

As Salerno again came to view no words could 
picture the exquisite scene — the shimmering water 
of a pure sea green, again the violet hues and a 
celestial blue with more intense coloring over against 
the horizon line. 

Then look down upon Salerno, then up to the 
ancient stronghold on the hill and still beyond to 
the snow-clad mountains whose glimmering white- 
ness melted away and mingled with the exquisite 
floating clouds above. 

Never could one wish to forget that tender delicate 
coloring as sea, sky and earth were illumined by the 
sloping rays of the afternoon sun. 

Finally the long drive came to an end and they 
took the express train back to Naples, passing over 
the bridge above the town through one or two 
tunnels and finally into the farm district again. 

What would an American think of a train that 
would wait twenty minutes at a time, then blow a 
horn, ring a bell and finally move slowly on. 

The next day was a rest day for Mrs. Hastings 


168 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


and Ruby with only a short visit to the shops, pre- 
paratory for their long train ride to Rome. 

“Oh Ruby, how different it is to travel alone. 
Don’t try to see everything the way we did when 
Lord Neverskeen was with us. I don’t want to see 
everything in Rome, Ruby. I can ’t stand it, I shall 
be sick and Hiram wouldn’t like to have you take 
the care. ” 

“Very well, mother, we will just see the principal 
things. We will drive to Pincio Hill and get a 
general view of the Eternal City where we can see 
the turbid waters of the Tiber, the famed seven 
hills of Rome, St. Peter’s, the Vatican, the city wall 
and the round castle of San Angelo. ” 

“Oh, don’t. Ruby, I can’t remember another 
thing. I can just say to Hiram that everything 
was so new that I couldn’t remember half nor 
quarter and it couldn’t be expected. I want to go 
to the Catacombs, Ruby, just to say I have been. 
Lord Neverskeen told me to be sure and go there. ” 

“Yes, mother, they are the burial places of the 
early Christians.” 

And shall we really see Angy at the entrance of 
the Catacombs of St. Callistus, going down the 
flight of stairs slowly after leaving their carriage. 

The Monk opens the door. They are furnished 
with tapers. Angy’s hands shake with fright as the 
door closed behind them. 

“Oh Ruby, let me go back. What a dismal place. 
Let me get my breath. I can’t see anything. Oh 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


169 


dear! dear! Why did I come? Why did I 
come?” 

“Mother, see how the bodies are placed. We are 
in a corridor of tombs and this is one of the larger 
chambers, but this gives you a good idea. ” 

“I have seen too much. Ruby. Take me back. 
This air stifles me. What will we see next? Don’t 
go any farther, ” and she stopped. “I can ’t stand it. ” 
The lights grew fainter and fainter. She grew 
dizzy — she was lost. 

“Ruby! Ruby!” she had presence of mind to 
shout and then settled back in a helpless heap. 

A scurry of feet, a flash of the tapers and there in 
the ghastly light was Angy. 

“Mother, mother, I thought you were right 
behind us. Why did you stop. ” 

“The smelling salts. Ruby. If I ever get out of 
this place alive, I never will try any thing more 
underground. ” 

They helped her to her feet and the Monk assisted 
her back into the open air. 

“Thank you. Monk,” she said deliberately. 
“Don’t you wish Rome was all dead and then you 
wouldn’t have to die by inches in that hole? Oh 
dear, oh dear. Let us go to some quiet place. Ruby, 
away from uncommon sights and rest. ” 

“Yes, mother, we will go on to Florence and then 
to Venice. I am sure you will like there. There are 
just a few places more we must go to — one is the 
Capitol Museum, where can be seen the Marble 
Fawn and the Dying Gladiator. ” 


170 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


“Oh don’t, Ruby! If I must see it let’s drive 
right there from here. Oh, my soul and body. Ruby, 
what do they want to impersonate such mental suffer- 
ing for, there is enough of it in real life. The smelling 
salts. Ruby!” 

“Now for the Coliseum, mother. ” 

“Oh don’t. Ruby. Let me rest today. I can’t 
stand such excitement. ” 

Next we see them at the Rospigliosi Palace where 
they are viewing the Aurora. 

Mrs. Hastings is sitting at a table looking into a 
glass in front of her. 

There she sees the marvellous coloring of Guido 
Reni ’s masterpiece — ^Aurora strewing flowers before 
the chariot of the God of the Sun who is surrounded 
by the Horse. 

“Oh my breath. Ruby. It is all so real.” Then 
silence reigned for a minute and then Angy exclaimed 
excitedly: “Ruby! Ruby! Have Hiram get you 
a chariot like that and hitch Jupiter, Juno, Mary 
Ann and Kate into it and have you stand in the place 
of Apollo and let Lord Never skeen be Aurora scatter- 
ing flowers before you. We have plenty of roses 
and to spare. Oh, Ruby, that would be bringing 
some of the sights home to Hiram and make the 
memory of the unpleasant things in travel fade 
away like the mists of the morning. Never mind 
if you don ’t have a torch bearer, wait until the day 
has really come and you can have just as much 
pleasure. ” 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


171 


Next their guide took them to the Coliseum. 

“Here is where the Gladiators fought.” 

“Oh, Ruby, it makes me sick, I can ’t hear any- 
body speak of such things. Oh dear, oh dear! How 
much room is wasted in this part of the world with 
this old half tumbled down rubbish.” 

“Eighty-seven thousand people,” continued the 
guide, “could be accommodated within this great 
amphitheatre. It was built in 80 A. D. and five 
thousand wild animals were killed the first one 
hundred days in the gladiatorial combats. Great 
exhibitions of naval contests took place. It was 
also the scene of Christian martyrdom.” 

“Oh dear, oh dear! my head, my head is stuffed 
to over-flowing with dates, figures and events. 
Don’t say another word I can’t stand it. I shan’t 
live any time at all after I get home when the high 
tension is off if I allow my head to be stuffed so with 
what can be found any time in books. ” 

“Mother, would you like to go to the Forum 
now?” 

“What’s that. Ruby?” 

“Ruins,” said the guide, monopolizing the con- 
versation with one sweeping sentence. “It was 
once the great center of civilization, where the 
golden mile-stone stood from which all distances 
were measured on every road leading to the outskirts 
of this great land of the Caesars.” 

“Oh, Ruby! can’t you stop that guide from run- 
ning on so? It sounds all right but when you look 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


m 

there’s nothing but a wall here and a pillar there 
and a pedestal somewhere else and an arch in some 
out of the way place where you least expect to see 
it. That’s all I can make out of what he says. ” 
“Here was heard the voice of Cicero!” said the 
guide, oblivious of all demands for silence. “Here 
the famous laws were enacted while the site of Paris 
was yet a wilderness and England a play-ground 
for the savages. ” 

Angy at this juncture put her fingers in her ears 
and looked like one in terrible agony. 

“Oh Ruby, do stop him, I never can get a word 
in edgewise or any other way. I want to ask a 
question. What about Scipio? He has not touched 
upon him in his mad rush of English. Lord Nevers- 
keen told me to remember something in connection 
with him and be sure and see where he rested his 
hands on the stones. ” 

Angy’s breath was on the wane. 

This, thought the guide, a good opportunity for 
him to recite the rest of his story and he began. 

“Now let us go to the Appian Way which stretches 
to the south of Rome across the Campagna past the 
tomb of Csecilia Metella. St. Paul came over this 
highway to the ‘Eternal City.’ This great thor- 
oughfare was constructed 212 years before Christ.” 

“Oh what a pity to be tied to such a chatterer, 
but if this is to be the last great sight of the day 
perhaps I can stand it. ” 

“Yes, mother, it will be.” 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


173 


“I shall remember this day as long as I draw 
breath. That chattering guide and the tumbled 
down trumpery will be stamped on my memory 
until I breathe my last. Oh Ruby, if Hiram 
could have conceived my misery he never would have 
advocated my coming, never, never, never. I must 
be getting stronger or sheer exhaustion would have 
excused me from this wilderness. I never as long 
as I live will ever talk down the simplicity of 
Yanonalit. Won’t the plain foothills of my native 
town look good to me, set in clean uncluttered dirt. 
Oh Ruby, I guess they will. Piper John’s store will 
be grander to me than anything I have yet looked 
upon. ” 

The next day they visited St. Peter’s with a 
guide. 

“This,” said he, “is the largest church in the 
world. ” 

“Oh dear me. Ruby, what shall I do? Ruby, I 
never can get fitted to clothes in Paris if I feel so 
shrinking away like. I am losing flesh every minute 

yy 

“Why, mother. What do you mean? 

“I feel so tiny in this place and yet as I take hold 
of my arm it has not grown any smaller. ” 

“I feel tiny, too, mother. It is the vastness of 
this, the greatest sanctuary in the world that makes 
us both feel so. Let us go to the Vatican now, seeing 
the Swiss guards at the entrance. The Pope lives 


174 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


here, mother. We will just take a glimpse into the 
Sistine Chapel and see some of the wonderful 
paintings by Michael Angelo. ” 

‘‘Very well, Ruby,” and thus ended their days in 
Rome. 


XXXVIII 


A s they left the Eternal City, they 
looked out over the plain with a long 
lingering look and the Dome of St. 
Peter’s faded away in the distance and 
became a memory. 

And the hours passed, with the history of a great 
past behind them and the treasure house of art 
before them in the City of Flowers. 

“Mother, dear,” said Ruby, after they had ar- 
rived in Florence we will take a drive about the city 
to get a general idea of it, if you are rested, ” and the 
next afternoon they were driven to Galileo’s tower. 

The day was perfect. The sky was clear, the air 
soft and balmy. 

The Arno threaded its way through the city. The 
low lying hills and the Apennines could be seen. 

The soft silvery green of the olive in contrast 
with the rich dark green of the fig and the cypress, 
with the villas nestled on the hillside, lend a happy 
effect. 

Next they visited the Palazzo Vecchio where 
Savonarola said his last mass in the little chapel 
before he gave up his life in the square below. 

From there they saw the Loggia de Lauzi, the 
175 


176 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


beautiful open vaulted hall with its sculptured 
treasures. They visited Pitti Gallery, the Uflfizi, 
where they stood in the octagonal hall known as the 
Tribune which, as Hawthorne says, “is the richest 
room in all the world, a heart that draws all hearts to 
it.” 

“Oh Ruby, how I wish Hiram was here to see 
this wonderful place. If I could paint I would 
paint a protrait of you and instead of having it 
painted as some are painted I would have a wreath 
of roses on your head and have you dressed in 
flowing robes of royal purple. Wouldn’t everybody 
look. Ruby, and then I could be famous with all the 
rest. Hiram will buy me some canvas and paints 
when I get home and I will try my skill. I can have 
the tower room turned into a studio just as well as 
not and Yanonalit would ring anew with the praise 
of its honored daughter. ” 

“Well, mother, if you say so we will buy some of 
Fra Angelico’s angels to take home.” 

They next took a glimpse of the Duomo with its 
encrusted surface of colored marbles and its beauti- 
ful colored windows lit up by an Italian sun, the 
Baptistry with its famous bronze doors and the world 
famous Campanile or Giotto’s Tower, as it is some- 
times called in honor of its great architect. We feel 
what a monument he left to his memory in this 
beautiful bell-tower, his masterpiece. 

“Let us stop at this monastery,” said the guide. 
They were conducted about by an old monk, with 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


177 


long white beard, shaven head, and dressed in a 
white robe. 

“What is he saying. Ruby?” 

“He is speaking in Italian,” said their pilot, “and 
telling us of the different rooms and what popes 
occupied them and he tells us the well curb in the 
centre of this garden was designed by Michael Ange- 
lo.” 

“Oh Ruby, why wouldn’t anything designed by 
such a noted man as he was be grand enough for us 
to have one like it. Ruby, I don’t want to stay to 
see any more here. Let us go on to Venice tomor- 
row. ” 

“Very well, mother.” 


XXXIX 


A nd the Queen of the Adriatic came to 
view none too soon for Mrs. Hastings. 

The two miles of Viaduct seemed end- 
less to Angy. She was thinking of the 
letters she knew she must get here from Hiram and 
Lord Neverskeen. 

The porter from the Europa Hotel soon had them 
floating along the canal to their island home. 

“Oh Ruby, I am charmed with this place. It 
seems like another world.” 

“I’m so glad, mother, that you are pleased. It 
is an ideal spot. I feel that I could float on for- 
ever myself with the gentle Italian breezes caressing 
my cheeks. ” 

Night came and with it the moon with its en- 
chanting spell. Ruby and her mother in a gondola 
were getting their first glimpse of the Piazza of St. 
Mark from the canal. The Doge’s Palace, the Cam- 
panile, the two Granite Columns all standing out 
clear in the moonlight. The flne band was playing 
so the music came floating over the water. They 
turned around and started up the canal, listening 
to the voices of the professional singers as the sweet 
notes were wafted over the limpid waters. 

178 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


179 


“We must not stay out too long this evening, 
mother, only just long enough to catch the delightful 
illusions of Venice for the moonlight mercifully 
conceals the ravages of time and the once famous 
palaces seem yet to possess all of their ancient glory 
as in the days gone by. Robert Browning died in 
the Rezzonico Palace in 1889 and Lord Byron lived 
in one of these palaces in 1818.” 

“Oh Ruby, what a beautiful night and how 
smoothly this gondola glides along. What are those 
posts for. Ruby?” 

“They show, with their heraldic colors, the rank 
of their proprietors, mother. ” 

“How do you know everything. Ruby? The 
guides seem so stupid to me. Ruby I want you to 
get me something to crochet while I am here. I 
ought to stint myself to do another centerpiece to 
match the one I finished the night of the musicale. 
Can’t we charter one of these gondolas for all day 
and take our lunch with us after we get our belated 
letters and have it real homey.” 

“Yes, mother, anything you say. While we are 
here in Venice we want to visit the famous lace 
factories. ” 

“Oh yes. Ruby. I want to get a scarf for Rebecca 
Ann and a dress for myself and one for you. ” 

“Here we are, mother, back to the hotel. Shall 
we go out at ten in the morning?” 

At the appointed time we find them with their 
bundle of letters seated comfortably in their gondola. 


180 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


“Read Hiram’s letter first, Ruby. 

“ ‘Dear Wifey. — I got a letter from Rebecca Ann 
last night telling me of the safe arrival of the bag 
of sugar. I’m so pleased to have it. Tell Ruby I 
predict that the sugar will play its part at her 
wedding. ’ ” 

“Ruby. Don’t read another word. What does 
Hiram mean? What can he mean? Oh, what a 
stir up a harmless bag of sugar has made. Did 
you say anything about Lord Neverskeen being a 
suitor. Ruby?” 

“No, mother. WTiy should I?” 

“Why shouldn’t you. Ruby? Oh, I shall die! 
The smelling salts. Ruby. ” 

“Let me finish, mother. Dad says for us to 
arrive in Switzerland the first of June. ” 

“June! Oh, my head. Ruby. I don’t want to 
leave here until June.” 

“That’s all of Dad’s letter, excepting he says for 
us to have as good a time as we can every day. We 
are nearing the Rialto now, mother! Put down 
your crochet and let me tell you something of this 
famous bridge. It is well worth our long trip from 
California just to look upon this wonderful marble 
span. For 300 years it has connected the east and 
west portions of Venice. You must write Dad that 
here the first newspaper ever publshed in the world 
was bought from this bridge, and that here one is 
environed by the memories of Shylock, Othello and 
the Old Doges when Venice was at the height of her 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


181 


glory, how the Queen of the Adriatic received homage 
both from the East and the West, how all these 
legends come back with one sweeping memory. 
Tomorrow we will see the Bridge of Sighs where — 
“I don’t want to hear any more about bridges of 
sighs or any other kind. Ruby. Let me hear Lord 
Neverskeen’s letter?” 

“Yes, mother,” and Ruby read. 

‘Cairo, Egypt. — My dear Mrs. and Miss Hast- 
ings. — You have been much in my thoughts since 
you left Egypt and I have felt quite condemned that 
I did not return to the continent with you. I have 
the pleasantest memories of Venice and know what a 
restful place it will be for you with no sound of 
rumbling carriages, no clatter of hoofs. It is the 
very poetry of motion to float about the canals in the 
gondolas. I only wish I could be with you.’ ” 
“How realistic he writes. How gifted he is with 
his pen. I had not missed the monotony of the 
poor dumb beasts.” 

Mrs. Hastings laid her crochet down for a moment. 
She listened and sure enough naught but the splash 
of the oar from the gondolier kept up its even swish 
as ever and anon its music told. 

“ ‘I have missed you both very much, ’ ” read 
Ruby from the open page. “ ‘Seldom do short 
friendships take such a hold of me. 

“Oh Ruby, don’t read another word. It brings 
it all back to me. How he held your hand in parting. 
How he made the echoes ring with his musical voice 


182 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


when he sang ‘My Country ’tis of thee/ and ‘Home 
Sweet Home. ’ ” 

“Don’t, mother.” 

“I can’t help it! but don’t tell Hiram I cried over 
Lord Neverskeen will you, for then he would have 
ground to sue for a divorce. It isn’t over him. It 
is his letter. Ruby. He is like some revivalists. 
He makes you feel his power. ‘ ” 

“Let me finish, mother. He says he may go to 
California this next winter for a long and extended 
trip in the Golden State. ” 

“Oh, Ruby. I feel such a load has been lifted 
from my mind. Tomorrow I want you to begin 
getting your trousseau. We must stay all day at 
the lace factory and buy only the best. We can 
tell better what to get when we see what they have. ” 
“That’s all of Lord Neverskeen ’s letter, mother. 
Now, which shall I read next? Aunt Rebecca’s or 
Eva’s, or Suky’s or which?” 

“Read Rebecca’s. Don’t mind every word but 
just get the gist of the contents of each. ” 

“ ‘Dear Angy and Ruby, — I sat up so late last 
night finishing a piece of sewing that I shall have to 
run off a short note to let you know how we are 
getting along. The sugar came by the Santa Bar- 
bara express. I paid the charges which were $5.79 
in all. Hiram telegraphed to have it put in a safe 
place until both of you were back. Suky says the 
carriage is at the door, so I close for now. Yours in 
haste. Rebecca Ann. ’ ” 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


183 


“Oh Ruby, Hiram must be planning something 
that we know nothing of. Do cable and find out or 
I shall die. ” 

“Let me read Suky’s letter to you. ‘Montecito, 
Cal. — Dear absent ones, — I hope while you are in 
Venice you will find something pretty to bring home 
to me. I am so lonesome with everybody away 
that I don’t know what to do with myself. When 
are you coming home?’ Poor, dear girl,” sighed 
Ruby. “ We must buy her something handsome. I 
must write her this very day and cheer her up. 
She’s a poor unfortunate. It wouldn’t be possible 
for us to have her come over and spend the summer 
months with us in Switzerland, would it?” 

“Oh Ruby, what next to keep me churning. 
That ’s half what I came away for was to get away 
from her hawk-like visage. ” 

“Here’s dear Eva’s letter. ‘My dearest Ruby, — 
I count the days and weeks that must pass before I 
can see your sunny face again. Please give my dear 
love to your mother today and won’t you both 
think of me especially while in Venice for it has 
always been the hope of my life to spend a long time 
in that dream city under the blue Italian sky. I 
imagine you a poet. Ruby, with all your other 
charms.’ ” 

“Oh, what a sweet girl Eva is. Ruby. I wish I 
could see her happily married. Can’t we make a 
match for her? I can see since I left California that 
which I never dreamed of seeing before. How the 


184 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


angling and the conniving of mammas and fond 
fathers is done. Hiram and I never did act like they 
do now-a-days. Hiram liked me without anybody 
pointing out any virtues, didn’t he, Ruby? When 
matches are made they don ’t give their young ladies 
pickled limes. Ruby. Oh, I am so thankful I had a 
great and noble suitor free from the vices and crimes 
that so often come in real life. Hiram has loved me 
just as much as he did in the days when we were 
both struggling together in Yanonalit.” 

None the worse for her restful trip on the Grand 
Canal, Mrs. Hastings rose next morning full of en- 
thusiasm for the day’s pleasures. 

Crossing the Piazza San Marco they stepped 
quickly along until their destination was gained. 
Angy’s eyes sparkled as piece after piece of beautiful 
lace was shown her. 

“I want that Marguerite pattern for one dress. 
Ruby. Don’t you think Hiram would like some 
curtains?” 

“Yes, mother, but why don’t you get a whole 
lace set for your room?” 

“I want you to have two or three of those parasol 
covers. Ruby. Ar’n’t they beautiful? Here is the 
rococo lace and duchess point. Supposing we take 
a piece of each. Rebecca Ann and Suky must have 
some lace scarfs for their heads and why wouldn’t 
it be well to get each of them one of those overdress 
effects. Now for your dresses. Ruby. That is 
the most important to decide on. Oh, how beautiful, ” 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


185 


said Angy. “They are gorgeous. You had better 
get a half dozen. ” 

“Mother, dear, we are not millionaires.” 

“Don’t think of cost, Ruby. We may never get 
here again. Have them reckon up our bill. ” 

“Twenty-five hundred lira, mother.” 

“How much is that in our money, Ruby?” 

“About five hundred dollars.” 

“I want to get just one thing more. That is a 
tidy to put on Hiram’s easy chair.” 

“Very well, mother, then we can go back to San 
Marco and from there go through the gateway, 
under the great clock tower and visit some of the 
stores on the Merceria. That is the principal street 
in Venice and it leads to the Rialto bridge. ” 

“Oh, what a good time I am having. Ruby.” 

“We must get quite a number of these colored 
pictures of San Marco, mother. Here is one of the 
famous canvasses — St. Barbara and Titian ’s Assump- 
tion of the Virgin. We had better pick up these 
while we are here. Perhaps tomorrow we can see 
the original. St. Barbara is an altar piece in the 
St. Maria Formosa and Titian ’s is in the Academy 
on the Grand Canal. Here is Tintoretto’s Paradise, 
that we can see in the Doge’s Palace. ” 

“I never can forget all I have seen, can I, Ruby.” 

“No, mother, if you are not too tired I would like 
to examine the coral necklaces, the Venetian pins, 
mosaics and glass. I want to get Evelyn one of the 
handsomest necklaces I can select.” 


186 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


“That dainty pink one shaded out to white 1 
think you better decide on. You must have one or 
more yourself, Ruby. I don’t think Hiram would 
like the looks of me any better if I should buy any 
number of them, because I never did toggle up to 
get him and I won’t have to begin now to keep him. 
I wouldn’t get too much of this filigree silver. It 
will tarnish easy. Ruby. We shall want to buy more 
when we get to Geneva. ” 

The day came to an end. They lingered for a 
last farwell look upon the Piazza of San Marco, 
watching the pigeons being fed, a custom that has 
prevailed for five hundred years. 

“Ruby, we must have some pet pigeons when we 
get home. ” 


XL 


B y jove, Jack Templeton, here ’s an answer 
back from Ruby ! She must have written 
right away and the letter been spirited on 
to a fast steamer to boot! Ah! this is 
luck,’* and he stripped off the end of the envelope, 
with a sweeping twist of his dexterous fingers, took 
his cigar from his mouth, blew the curling smoke 
from his lips, and settled back into his reclining chair 
with long drawn breath of satisfaction, put his feet 
on to the writing table before him, and snatched the 
letter from its cover, unfolded and commenced 
reading aloud. “ ‘Dear Mr. Templeton’ — It should 
have been, ‘My dearest Jack!’ ” He grew excited 
He jumped to his feet! He read aloud, then ab- 
stractedly thrust out his hand for his half burned 
cigar. 

“What does this mean! I — ^hang it all. By 
gracious me! It shall never be! She will marry 
me ! ” and he pulled and puffed at his cigar vigorously. 
“Some dude must have stepped into the arena, and 
dazzled her!” He thrust his hand through his 
hair, and stared for a moment vacantly at the lines 
before him. 

“Templeton — ” he said at last, “it’s all over with 
187 


188 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


you. Hie yourself west, east, south, or north. 
Which shall it be?” and his forehead knotted, and 
his hands trembled with the depth of his emotions. 

“This is a terrible blow for a fellow. I will leave 
for parts unknown! No one shall know my where- 
abouts. No, Beatrice shall not, — cannot — win me. 
She shall see at last, that I do not want her and will not 
have her. I will become a lone wanderer on the 
face of the earth. I will vanish so effectually that 
no trace of me can be found. ” 

His cigar, as if to taunt him, accidentally fell to 
the floor, and he with hasty preparation flew out of 
the house down the path to the station, and boarded 
an express leaving no clew of his whereabouts. 

Mrs. Stacy passed the whole affair off as not an 
unusual happening, and thought nothing of it. 


XLI 


w 


EEKS and months pass, and no 
Jack. Where is he.^ 


Just follow the scribe along the 
crowded thoroughfare, along a 


certain street in New York. Look closely, scan 
the faces, one by one, as they pass ! 

Glance at the steps of Hotel Astor, I thought I 
saw a familiar face. He turns, puts his cigar between 
his teeth, and trips lightly down the steps into the 
street. He heads for a certain banking house. 
We hesitate as he slows up his pace, and reads 
the name, “Leopold, Gerard Co. Stocks and Bonds.” 

He enters and curiosity leads us on after him. 

“Good morning,” was the gracious salute to our 
friend, Jack Templeton. “What can I do for you 
this morning?” 

“How is Reading this morning?” 

“Good! Going right up.” 

“Well, give me a thousand shares, at the market 
price. I will inform you later when to sell. ” 

“Well, my fine fellow, you are in luck. You have 
cleared ten thousand dollars at one sweep, in your 
other venture. ” 


189 


190 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


“By jove, that's luck indeed!” 

Mr. Gerard, the junior partner of the famous 
firm smiled, cheerfully upon Jack, his clear eyes and 
fine complexion becoming well defined as he struck 
an attitude before him. 

“Mr. Templeton,” said the genial Mr. Gerard, 
“let me prophecy that before a year, if you keep on 
with luck at this pace, you will be able to buy me 
out, Mr. Leopold and perhaps a corner of Wall 
Street to boot. Invite me to your castle, young 
man, even if I am but an humble page!” The 
two laughed heartily. Jack deciding in his own mind 
that Raymund Gerard was one of the cleverest all 
around fellows he ever saw, one everybody must 
learn to love and admire. 

Men and women alike would catch the warmth 
of this grand young man. 

“I’m lucky in everything but love, Mr. Gerard. 
Sit down here and let me pour my woes into your 
ears. ” 

“Mr. Templeton, who may I ask is the fair 
young woman that spurns sueh a fellow as you. ” 

“Her name is Hastings, Ruby is her first name. 
To begin with she’s the handsomest girl that ever 
was born. Her eyes are like sparkling jewels, set 
to a face of dazzling beauty. Her hair is like waves 
of golden sunshine, making a halo to an ethereal 
faee, that invites the saints to worship at its shrine. ” 

“Oh! Mr. Templeton, what part of the world 
do you find sueh altars to torture the hearts of all 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


191 


mankind. I’m a bachelor you know! Say, boy, 
where does she live.” 

“In Montecito, California! I know you will not 
betray my confidence, your heart is too full of kind- 
ness.” 

“I believe you could make a butterfly sweep 
around and about over your head, and finally light 
like an overjoyed winged champion, at your feet. ” 

“Ah me!” sighed Jack, “I ’ve followed her across 
country and back, and then she went to Europe with 
her mother for her health. Her last letter was re- 
ceived some weeks ago, and but for that letter, Mr. 
Gerard, you might never have met me. I became a 
wanderer away from home and friends journeying 
aimlessly about in utter despair. I could see nothing 
in life for me, but at last I conquered myself. I am 
a positive, wilful, ardent person, Mr. Gerard. I 
just made up my mind to become such a bright and 
shining light that no other would eclipse mine and 
here I am.” 

“Yes, I see,” says Mr. Gerard, “bounding along 
like a rocket, the flare of whose magnificence will 
end in a radiant comet generating praise and tribute 
from every hand. ” 

“Her father is rich and she has become heir to an 
immense fortune from her uncle, who lived in the 
Northwest. He died in Seattle ! ” 

“I want to know! That’s an enterprising place, 
I can tell you, I was there not long ago. ” 

“Mr. Gerard, Mr. Vanderlip wishes to talk to 
you.” 


192 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


“Well, well, old boy,’’ he said to Jack rising, “keep 
to your laurels,” and after a hearty handshake. 
Jack was off for his club. 

Mr. Hastings is still in Seattle, at the Rainier 
Hotel. His arduous task seems to hold him there a 
long time. 

He has kept very close to business, not mixing into 
any sociabilities of any kind. His face is a good deal 
care worn, as he sits at table sipping his coffee. 

A stranger has been shown to the seat opposite 
him. A young man, say twenty-eight or thirty, 
Mr. Hastings thought, as he glanced over his glasses 
an instant from his morning paper. 

A sort of longing came over him to talk to some- 
body that was a stranger to his troubles and per- 
plexities, so he lay down his paper, mechanically, 
and glanced again at the stranger before him. This 
time their eyes met. 

“Fine morning,” said the new comer genially. 

“Yes! it is that,” said Mr. Hastings. 

“This is a very delightful city to be stopping in,” 
said the young man, “ a great many things of interest 
for a tourist. ” 

“I don’t know much about the city, although I 
have been here several weeks,” said Mr. Hastings. 
“I’m here on business.” 

“That’s my mission. I have mining interests and 
real estate ventures that brings me here, and my 
reason for booming Seattle, sir, you can plainly see. ” 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


193 


“The location is grand without exaggeration/' 
said Mr. Hastings. “I wouldn’t mind picking up 
some lots that are going to advance in price. Where 

is your land, Mr. . ” 

“Here’s my card, sir!” 

“And here is mine,” said Hiram, taking his of 
San Francisco make out of his pocketbook. 

“Ah, ha,” say we, “Mr. Hastings face to face with 
Raymund Gerard, of New York. ” 

“I have an appointment at ten o’clock,” said Mr. 
Hastings, “but tomorrow, if it will be agreeable, I 
would like to see some of that land.” 

Raymund Gerard smiled. Mr. Hastings took to 
the stranger, we could see. 

“All right, say one o’clock in the lobby.” 
“Satisfactory,” says Hiram, and off he went. 
“Nice old man!” says Raymund, soliloquizing. 
“Very sorrowful looking, and who can wonder, 
away from home, without friends. I will try and 
cheer him up a bit while I am here. I ’ll take him to 
see, ‘Way Down East.’ I believe that’s here now. 
I am due back in New York, let me see,” and he 
consulted his memorandum. “Yes, that will give 
me day after tomorrow here. Time enough to run 
over to Bellingham, Everett or Victoria, either one. ” 
One o’clock the following day arrived — the 
appointed time for meeting Mr. Hastings and the 
genial, rather corpulent personage of Raymund 
Gerard, on the tick of one, appeared with a large 
roll of something under his arm. 


194 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


“Great day this, Mr. Hastings. Shall we go to 
the water front first? There’s a valuable piece of 
property down there, in my estimation. I want your 
opinion, Mr. Hastings, I’m one of the lucky men so 
far. Everything I buy doubles on me, whether it is a 
happen or not. There ’s another piece in the vicinity 
equally as good. These are the plans, this cumber- 
some bundle, I have,” and off they went, and were 
on the spot after looking this way and that across 
the Sound, then again to Mt. Rainier off to the 
south and then at the property in question they 
halted. “ This city has a tremendous storage capacity, 
Mr. Hastings.” 

“Yes, I see it has.” 

“It has a big export and import business, and 
controls the Alaskan trade,” continued Mr. Gerard. 
“What do you think? I will close my deal today. ” 

“You are a rusher, young man,” said Hiram 
genially, “you give me the fever, I generally think 
and consider until I sometimes think myself sick. 
You go at things off hand, and say you never fail. 
Your judgment must be good. Mr. Gerard, I 
believe I will decide on this piece of property, ” says 
Hiram. “ It pays ten per cent net, and the whole, — 
let — me — see, you said it could be bought for fifty 
thousand. ” 

“That’s it! Mine is somewhere, I don’t remem- 
ber the exact figures, sixty or sixty-five thousand 
dollars, I think. I want to close mine in this after- 
noon, and then my time will be free to show you 
something of the place.” 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


195 


“Oh, thank you,” said Mr. Hastings. “How 
about the title?” “O. K. Seamore out here, is the 
best title lawyer this side of the state; he’s looked 
them both up. Supposing if you really think serious 
about the deal, that we take a carriage up to Attor- 
ney Bates’ office.” 

“Oh yes! yes! I’ve had considerable many 
dealings with him already, he’s first class.” 

“I bank here, / to building,” says Gerard, pointing 
as they pass. 

“ I wish you could meet my daughter, ” said Hiram 
off hand. His whole manner seemed changing. 

“Your daughter, ” says Raymund, his face lighting 
up. 

“She’s a great favorite with all the young people, 
everybody likes her, for that matter. I am so lonely 
without her and my wife; she was never away from 
me so long since I married her in the seventies. You 
see Ruby studied so hard nd went so much in society 
that before we were aware of it, she all of a sudden 
was taken sick, and the doctor advised this long sea 
trip. They will be away until the first of the year. 
Sometime when you are in California, after I am 
through with my business here, hunt me up at our 
home in Montecito. ” 

“I surely will, Mr. Hastings, run in on you some- 
time. ” 


XLII 


T he days and weeks passed swiftly by, 
Mrs. Hastings and Ruby finding some- 
thing new each day to take up their 
time. 

“We will have to leave tomorrow for Milan, 
mother. ” 

“I am so sorry. Ruby. But after all, every day 
brings us nearer home,’' and when the train halted 
at the station, Mrs. Hastings was in good spirits, 
looking about her at the new and varied scenes. 

“Do you feel equal to climbing to the top of the 
Cathedral here? It has 2,000 statues and is built 
of white marble and the Milanese call it the eighth 
wonder of the world.” 

From the roof could be seen the red tiled roofs of 
the buildings below, then looking across the plains 
of Lombardy, the snow clad mountains of Switzer- 
land loomed up in the distance. 

“Oh Ruby, what a big place. I want to count 
the pillars on the inside when I get down. My 
breath has not fairly come back yet. Oh, dear, 
but when it does just think of the things I have to 
tell Hiram about by the fireside when I get home.” 
Their guide next took them to the suppressed 
196 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


197 


monastery of Sta. Maria delle Grazie where they 
saw the Last Supper executed by Leonardo da 
Vinci. 

“Oh, Ruby, how resigned Christ looks when he 
says, ‘One of you shall betray me.’ How startled 
all the other people look on the canvas. How real 
it all is! Do you suppose I shall be able to imper- 
sonate life hke he has when I become a great painter. 
Ruby? The secret of everything is to present life 
in a realistic way whether you are a writer, a poet, 
or sculptor. That is the right word, isn ’t it? ” 

“Yes, mother.” 

“If you were to put me on canvas,” continued 
Angy, “I should be immortalized say with my 
crochet work the way I looked in the gondola on the 
Grand Canal. ” 


XLIII 


Oh fair Geneva, 

Where the crystal-watered Rhone 
Threads its course of beauty, 

Whose sapphire lake 

Shelters Rosseau’s enchanted Isle, 

Whose vista grand 
Points to the hoary crags 
Of God ’s great handiwork. 

Oh let the pilgrims sing 

From every haunt in Switzerland, 

The Great Redeemer ’s praise. 

“What a beautiful spot, Ruby! I want to get a 
watch to take the place of the one that Hiram gave 
me that I smashed at Ogden. Don’t you think it 
would be possible for me to match it here. Ruby?” 

“Let us go and see, mother.” 

Mrs. Hastings gazed at the beautiful jewelry 
before her. 

“Oh Ruby, this is fairyland. I want everything 
I see. I want the handsomest mosaic pin that can 
be bought for you. Ruby. Just see these enamelled 
watch chains and this watch, with the whole case 
set in precious stones, rubys, diamonds and sapphires. 

198 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


199 


I want to give it to you for your next Christmas 
present. ” 

“Do you realize what such a watch must cost? 

“Never mind, Ruby, it is to be yours,” and before 
Ruby could express her delight her mother asked the 
clerk if he had any old fashioned watches. 

“Not one, madam.” 

“Oh dear. Ruby! Money can’t replace Hiram’s 
watch here. Oh dear, oh dear. How would it be 
for me to get a perfectly plain case and have my 
monogram put on the case? Oh Ruby, you tell Hiram 
it was an accident, won’t you? You see I wan’t 
so used to travel then as I am now, but how I do 
cling to the gifts Hiram gave me in our courting days.” 

“This is a very pretty one and the works are fine. 
I would decide upon it. ” 

“Do you suppose Hiram would like one. His is 
very old. It must be most worn out. How I wish 
I had waited and not got his chain until I got here. 
Can ’t I give the moonstone bracelet to Delia instead 
of having it made into a chain. ” 

“If you like.” 

“Oh! Ruby, how happy I am with not one thing 
to mar my pleasure! Sometimes I think will it 
always last?” 

“Don’t worry, mother. You say I must have 
this beautiful jewelled watch and this enamelled 
chain and the mosiac pin. How beautiful! How 
thoughtful you are for me, mother. Let me buy 
your watch and Dad’s for Christmas. May I?” 


200 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


“Yes, Ruby,” was the faint response, “I want 
to get Hiram a scarf pin. ” 

“Very well, then we must drive back for dinner. ” 

“ What beautiful coloring in Lake Geneva, Ruby, 
isn’t it? Do you suppose I could put that exquisite 
tint on canvas ? Is it right for me to enjoy so much ? ” 

“Why not, mother. An enthusiastic traveller 
should be in great demand. There are very few 
that are looking for the beautiful. It is always some 
petty discomfiture that takes up the time and 
attention of most people. Perhaps we may have 
some letters awaiting us. 

“ Can ’t I write Hiram about his new watch, Ruby,” 
but the carriage had stopped before their hotel and 
sure enough a handful of letters was passed to 
them. 

“Mother, here’s a letter in an unknown hand- 
writing for you. Will you break the seal? ” 

“Oh, dear me. Ruby. Who can it be from? You 
see where the post mark is. Ruby. Oh, dear. How 
my head aches. Oh my nerves, my nerves. I 
can’t. Ruby. There’s no use. It’s upset me 
entirely. You take it,” and Ruby broke the seal, 
passed her eyes over the opening lines and then 
turned to the signature at the end. Her face was 
scarlet. 

“Why, mother dear. This letter was not meant 
for you. ” 

“Not meant forme! It has been resent. Where 
from?” 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


201 


“From Montecito.” 

“Of course it is mine then. Read it, Ruby. I 
can’t stand the suspense any longer.” 

“But really, mother. I rather not.” 

“Rather not. Then let me read it. Oh, how I 
wish Lord Neverskeen was here to read it for me. ” 

“Well, mother, if you insist of course I will, but 
remember there is some mistake,” and she began: 

“ ‘Santa Barbara, California, May 14, 1899. 
Dear Mrs. Hastings, — It is with the deepest sym- 
pathy I write this note to you. I have just returned 
from an extended trip and have just learned of your 
husbands’ death.’ ” 

“Oh Ruby, stop. The smelling salts. Oh dear, 
and I away from him. ” 

“Oh, mother, mother, there’s no truth in it. It’s 
all a mistake. ” 

“Oh dear. Let me have another whiff of those 
smelling salts.” 

“There, now, calm yourself, mother, while I 
continue. ” 

“Dear Hiram!” 

“ ‘I have always admired and esteemed you, Mrs. 
Hastings and in this hour of deepest misery for you—’ ” 

“Oh, Ruby, another whiff of those smelling salts. 
I shall die, I shall die. Go on. Ruby. ” 

“ ‘In this hour of deepest misery for you, let me 
offer you consolation. ’ 

“Consolation,” cried Angy. “Who wrote it. 
Ruby? Who’s the man that dares, whether it be 
true or not to tamper so with my feelings — ” 


202 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


“ * — in offering you my hand and heart/ 
“Merciful Father,” cried Angy, jumping to her 
feet in her excited state. “The hypocrite! The 
hypocrite! Whether it be true or not in his mind. 
The beast! The beast!” and Ruby continued, 
thinking it best to finish the document as quickly as 
possible : 

“ ‘I am a lonely widower just the same as you are 
a lonely widow. ’ ” 

“Oh dear, oh dear. Ruby.” 

“ ‘Answer me at once and tell me yes and I shall 
be the happiest man’ — ” 

“ Stop, Ruby. I can ’t hear another syllable. Oh 
my head, my head. ” 

— “ ‘in the whole world. Address me, “dearest 
Albert” when you begin the reply so’s to relieve me 
from the great shock of a might-be refusal which I 
know you wouldn’t have the heart or inclination to 
pen. Yours affectionately, Albert Hanscome. ’ ” 
“Oh Ruby,” came the faint, inarticulate words. 
“Give me water — water. I can’t breathe. I can’t 
think. I — ” and Angy sank back thoroughly 
exhausted upon the couch. 

“Oh, mother, mother, there is some mix up some- 
where. Somebody has misinformed Commodore 
Hanscome about Dad. Don’t worry. Let me go 
down to the cable office and send a message to Dad 
to make sure he is all right. ” 

“Oh dear, oh dear. I never shall live to see 
Hiram again ! Such terrible shocks as I keep having 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


203 


are sure to bring on heart failure and, Ruby, come 
here, dear — if I do go sudden tell Hiram I always 
have been true to him, and I always want him to 
bring home pickled limes just the same as ever and 
put them on my dressing case just the same as if I 
was alive. Oh, give me the smelling salts. Ruby. 
I believe I am going now. Oh ! Oh ! Hold my head. 
Ruby. I feel a little better but I had a narrow 
escape. Don’t ever let Hiram know that letter 
came. Will you promise?” 

“Never, never, if you so desire but we ought to 
find out somehow why it was sent. 

“Here’s a letter in Dad’s handwriting now dated 
— let me see — May 21. Let me read. ‘I have just 
received a letter from Rebecca Ann saying Commo- 
dore Hanscome is home from his long trip around 
the world.’ This letter explains it all. I won’t 
have to cable to Dad. You see Dad was away and 
the Commodore had been misinformed. Here’s a 
letter from Rebecca Ann. ‘Dear Ruby, — I heard 
Commodore Hanscome having a practical joke 
played on him in the Santa Barbara post office, the 
other day. For fear it should materialize, I will 
insert what I heard. R. Ann. “Hello, old boy. 
You just home, I take it, from your extended trip. 
Still a widower, with no attraction in sight. ” “You’re 
right, Stevens.” “That’s too bad. I feel in the 
mood of helping you out. Why don’t you strike 
for Hastings’ widow. There’s lots of money there 
and nothing in the way but a pretty daughter which 


204 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


some young man will lay claim to before many 
moons.” “Do you mean to say she is a widow, 
Stevens? Well, I just guess I’ll profit by your 
suggestions, ” said the somewhat superanuated 
gentleman. “Where can I reach her. I suppose 
she’s still in Montecito. ” “No, she and her daugh- 
ter were so broken up that they have gone abroad 
for a year to get over their sorrow.” “I see,” says 
the elderly man. “Any letters sent to her home 
address would be forwarded.” “That’s it, Commo- 
dore. Now go ahead. You’ve no time to lose. 
You might as well be the lucky one and she will have 
much to gain.” “Oh thank you, thank you, Mr. 
Stevens.” “Ha! ha! ha! what a trap I’ve set for 
the poor innocent. Oh what a mess I’ve made for 
all concerned. ” 


XLIV 


A rriving at Cluse, Mrs. Hastings 
and Ruby left their train and took a 
diligence at one o’clock in the after- 
noon for Chamounix. 

The air was invigorating and a drive of three 
hours through the valley brought them to the foot 
hills. 

There the five horses slackened their pace. 

The happy company feared nothing for there was 
the accustomed guard along. 

The rushing Arve sang a joyous salute. 

The flora, with rosy petals from the roadside 
bade us tarry ’neath the King of the Alps, whose 
hoary head invites the admiration of every beholder, 
whose icy crests and grand old crags like monumental 
beacons await at sunset the coming of the dawn. 
Chamounix was reached. 

“What a restful place this is. Ruby. Not a 
sound to disturb this mountain quiet. No danger, 
is there, of these mountains sliding down upon us. 
Ruby.” 

“Not in the least, mother.” 

At that instant a deafening jarring sound rent 
the air. 


205 


206 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


“Oh Ruby, Ruby. We will be swallowed up. 
We must flee for our lives! Take my satchel, Ruby. 
Never mind clothes,” and Angy, with one frantic, 
frenzied move, gained the door and would have 
plunged out into the open, down the stone steps had 
Ruby not restrained her. “Mother, mother, that 
was the roar of the cannon, a customary signal of 
the safe return of travellers from Mt. Blanc . Here 
is where we can have the novel adventure of going 
on to a glacier. ” 

“Oh, if I ever get home alive I will be satisfled if 
I never see another thing. Oh, my nerves. I feel 
as if the whole of the mountain must have slid 
down onto the town and we were the only ones left 
alive. You look, Ruby. If the mountains are really 
there I will uncover my eyes. ” 

“Yes, mother, they are.” 

“What a merciful providence to think we are 
spared. ” 

“The town is just as we saw it a few moments 
ago.” 

“What a deliverance.” 

“Let us think, mother, of something else. We 
must go on to the Glacier de Boysant.” 

“Oh, what can there be left for excitement if 
we should ever take another trip. Everything I 
try that’s new I think it must be the last. What a 
big world and what a conglomerate mass of ice, dirt 
and rubbish to call wonders after all when you sit 
down quiet to think after you forget what the 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


207 


guides have told you about the different places. I 
suppose the strip of ice is the same one that lured 
on the tourists in the first days of this travelling 
mania that has seized hold of everybody that could 
get money enough together to go. But I am curious, 
Ruby. How do we get to it?’’ 

“We have to ride to the glacier on trusty mules 
and take along strong guides and then with our moun- 
tain sticks to steady us and stocking feet drawn 
over our boots we will be quite safe.” 

“If I thought I wouldn’t fall I believe I would 
try it, just to be able to tell Hiram of another tri- 
umph. ” 

“It is a four-hour trip and will mean fatigue at 
best.” 

“But I must go. Let me try it tomorrow before 
I lose my courage!” 

“Don’t let me fall, guide, sir. If I had realized 
what it was like I would not have ventured. ” 

“Step very cautiously, madam.” 

“Oh, I am so dizzy. Don’t let me fall into that 
crevasse! I feel as if the ice was sliding down and 
out from under me. ” 

“It is, mother, only it is so slowly accomplishing 
it.” 

“Don’t say another word, Ruby. Let me go 
back before I slide with the ice beyond a landing. 
Oh, dear.” 

In turning Angy grabbed for the guide’s arm and 
missed it. 


208 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


She turned three times in a circle, then finally 
with her alpine stalk pointing to the topmost crag 
of Mt. Blanc, she gained her upright position. 

“Oh, Ruby, the smelling salts. If I ever can get 
off of this fioating ice-boat I never will be persuaded 
to go over any more water until we leave for home. ” 
“See, mother, the mules are in sight. Just a few 
moments more and then we can begin the descent. 

“I can’t, I can’t ride back. Ruby. I don’t care 
for any more experiences. I shall be off. ” 

“It is just because you were so frightened on the 
glacier, mother,” but she was so tired that she 
really had to mount the mule. 

“Oh! — oh! — oh! if I only could look up at some- 
thing, Ruby, instead of always having the sensation 
of sliding off over the beast’s ears. ” 

“Look off into space. The guide will see no harm 
comes to you. ” 

Not a murmur came from her lips. The descent 
back to the road was made in safety and when the 
hotel was reached she told Ruby she wished there 
was something else she could accomplish, “for 
after all, crossing a glacier wan’t as bad and Hiram 
would pronounce her one of the bravest women that 
ever stepped foot on Swiss soil. I want to carry 
that alpine stalk home. Ruby, and have it gilded and 
wound with the Swiss and French fiags and put in 
a conspicuous place in my studio.” 

And with the towering peaks mirrored in her 
mind, Mrs. Hastings quietly slept that night that 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


209 


refreshing sleep that would make the next glorious 
triumph but a ripple on the sea of life. 

As their eyes turned from the grand old mountains, 
Mrs. Hastings, no doubt, was dreaming of the weeks 
that were to be spent in Paris shopping. 


XLV 


N ever mind my clothes, Ruby, until 
yours are all finished. We have plenty 
of leisure. I want to order one of the 
handsomest outfits that can be made 
for my daughter.’^ 

“Wedding outfits?” 

“Yes,” answered Angy not glancing at Ruby. 
“White liberty satin is the correct form for the 
bridal dress. The train should be four yards long 
and if you do not mind expense I should introduce a 
vine of orange blossoms around the corsage done in 
gold and silver thread, also around the train in a 
larger pattern. It will cost you one thousand dol- 
lars.” 

“Does that include the lace garnishing?” asked 
Angy joyously. 

“Everything, madam. Now the travelling dress 
I shall make in the soft tones of brown. A tailored 
jacket and skirt and the hat, to be correct, should 
be a snug turban with an effective ornament. 
Her reception gown will be also in brown decorated 
with gold thread and a vine of roses to one side of 
the gracefully draped skirt. A quilling of the soft 
pink shall border the overdress, also the rounded 
210 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


211 


neck and sleeves. I would suggest for calling a 
blue mirror velvet, the skirt absolutely plain, a 
narrow edge of ermine around at the throat of the 
outer garment. This costume requires a large 
picture hat of blue velvet edged with ermine, a mass 
of rose pink plumes to one side. ” 

“Oh Ruby, won’t you look grand! I bought 
some beautiful over laces in Venice. Can you do 
something with those?” 

“Bring them in, Mrs. Hastings. Let me drape 
one over pink satin, another over turquoise blue 
and one over the softest brown with an introduction 
of bead work that will be very effective. ” 

Ruby smiled through her mother’s whole episode 
and after telling the madam she would not order the 
bridal dress today, asked her to suggest the correct 
dress for her mother. 

“A moire brocade princess with court train.” 

“ Oh Ruby, I never can, I know I can ’t wear a 
train. I should get all wound up in it. I know I 
should.” 

“Let it be perfectly plain, Mrs. Hastings, your 
diamonds glimmering through the thin lace of the 
neck. Your hair should be done high with a single 
jewelled ornament perched high on the coiffure.” 

“ Oh Ruby, I can ’t afford a necklace. Couldn ’t 
I have a plainer necklace and save a httle that way. 
Hiram never liked me to wear such things or I might 
have had them long ago,” she said, by way of ex- 
planation to the madam. 


212 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


“Dad would gladly give you a necklace if he 
thought it would make you any happier.” 

“ Hiram is one of the best men I ever saw — if Lord 
Neverskeen only proves as good. ” 

“Please mother, don’t.” 

“Well, I should be careful, but if these people 
should tell all they hear they wouldn ’t get any 
business. Ruby. I want a plain travelling dress and 
loose wrap to wear home to let Hiram see how much 
I have changed in looks. ” 

“Mother, dear, you never will look any different 
to Dad from the day he first met you in Yanonalit. ” 

“Oh dear me. Ruby. Isn’t it fortunate I married 
one of those kind of men. I should be grieved to 
death if I had to keep all the time trying to please 
him and never succeed. ” 

“Paris is a beautiful city, Mrs. Hastings. I 
know you will be in love with it,” said the madam, 
as she bowed out her patrons, after giving Mrs. 
Hastings a card of appointment for a fitting. 

“Let’s go to Complet,” said Mrs. Hastings, seeing 
a coach so marked. “Sir, please stop that bus for 
us. Oh dear. I can’t breathe. I have hurried 
so.” 

“I — I — I am — am very — very sorry, madam,” said 
the stranger, smiling. “That, bus is, is, is, not — 
not going there — there. Er — ma-madam! It — it 
is — is f-f-full.” 

“Full of what,” cried Mrs. Hastings. 

“ P-p-people, ” said the stuttering man. 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


213 


“ Er — er — er — t-this — there — there — that — one h- 
h-has — g-g-gone, m-m-madam. I — am — v-v-very — s- 
sorry — to — to — to — d-d-detain — you — so — so — 
long!’’ 

“Thank you,” said Ruby, and the man passed 
on his way. 

“I don’t believe I ever can get used to Paris. ” 


XLVI 


I like this plain effect very much,” said Mrs. 
Hastings viewing herself satisfactorily in the 
glass. “Now I want to say a few words to 
you in privacy, madam. I want you to go 
right ahead with my daughter’s bridal dress not 
letting her know anything about it. Of course from 
the other fittings which you do for her you can 
make that perfect without any trying on. I will be 
responsible for the bill. You see Ruby is not en- 
gaged, and it seems a little previous to be having a 
betrothal gown made, but I have some one picked 
out for her and he is coming to see us as soon as we 
get home and then there will be something in it, 
because I am willing, he is willing and Hiram will be 
pleased if I am pleased. Can’t you send it in such 
a way that she won’t know?” 

“Yes, Mrs. Hastings, I will send it in your name. 
You will have to pay duty on it!” 

“I don’t mind that, Hiram is well to do. Of 
course once I couldn’t say that, but now he is the 
richest man in Montecito and is very prosperous. 
He is in Seattle now looking after some money that 
is coming to Ruby mostly. I get, if I haven’t for- 
gotten, about ten thousand dollars. Don’t speak 
214 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


215 


of it to anybody will you, madam. The young 
man’s name is Lord Neverskeen.” 

“Oh yes, Mrs. Hastings, the name is very familiar, 
I have just made two dresses for his mother. ” 

“Don’t let her know what I said wdll you, for it 
might break up the match and I like him better 
than anybody that has yet tried to wdn my daughter’s 
hand. There ’s some one by the name of Templeton 
that wants to marry her but I don’t like him so well 
as this one. ” 

“Have your daughter come ^for her fittings day 
after tomorrow at ten o ’clock. ” 

I^Mrs. Hastings, proud of her achievements to 
surprise Ruby, felt in fine spirits, as she drove back 
to her hotel. 

Ruby, in her mother’s absence, read over again 
Jack Templeton’s letter thinking how best to answer 
it. 

“Dear Ruby — It’s no use having it your way, 
Ruby. I can never be reconciled to your last letter 
sent me from Cairo. I have added a snug fortune 
to the one I already had when I first saw you. I 
am in dead earnest about you, and am willing to 
suffer almost torture to get you, if I can’t win you 
any other way. Your eyes are like sparkling jewels, 
that dazzle a fellow and prone him at your feet. 
Your heart is full of kindness, pity and sympathy 
for the whole world. Now show compassion on me 
and once more consider the happiness that you could 
bestow on me with just one word. I cannot face the 


216 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


world without you. I dare not think what might 
befall me, if I should attempt it. Forgive me, Miss 
Ruby, if I offend you in thrusting myself again into 
your life, and believe me, your faithful friend. Jack. ” 
“Dear Mr. Templeton — Your note of September 
10 is just received. I have read it over and over. 
I cannot for one moment think that you are not 
sincere. I have the greatest respect for you. I 
thank you for your ardent pursuit for my heart and 
hand. Friendship, Mr. Templeton, is the binding 
sheath that ties the sweet tendons of life together. 
Without friendships, life would lose the grip. Now 
Mr. Templeton this is what I feel must exist between 
us, as much as I know your regard is for me. I 
leave you free to sue for the hand of some fair girl, 
whom I feel sure you wiU find. I wish you prosperity, 
health and all that can possibly come to you that is 
for your good. Your sincere friend. Ruby Hastings.” 

“My dress is lovely. Ruby,” cried Mrs. Hastings, 
as she entered their room just as the seal to the 
fated letter was affixed. “Another letter to Evelyn, 
I suppose,” and the incident was passed in the 
rehearsal of the beauties of her new gown. 

“Oh Ruby, I can’t realize that we are to start for 
home so soon. Where have these last weeks flown? 
I want a sail on the Thames and be sure and see the 
royal horses before we leave London, anyway. ” 
“You must be sure to see ‘Big Ben.’ ” 

“Whose special horse is he. Ruby?” 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


217 


“That’s the bell in the tower of the House of 
Parliament, mother.” 

“Oh, dear me. Ruby. What a mistake. Sup- 
posing I had made such a slip when Lord Nevers- 
keen was with us. But how merciful Providence is. 
I want to finish my shopping this afternoon. Ruby. 
We must buy some trunks, etc. ” 

Regent street was lined with carriages. Mrs. 
Hastings loved the bustle and stir at every hand. 

“Oh Ruby, what would Judy Stark think to walk 
into another world like I have. She would be lost 
while she was turning the first corner. Before I 
start out tomorrow. Ruby, I want you to write a 
card where we are stopping for me to have in case 
of accident.” 

“Very well, mother, I will,” and when she turned 
toward her she was nowhere to be seen. She called 
a policeman, gave her mother’s name and a descrip- 
tion of her to him and told him she would remain 
where she was until he came back. 

Mrs. Hastings, becoming dazed, had started off 
directly away from Ruby thinking she would catch 
up with her in a minute, but when no Ruby could be 
seen, she began to cry. 

“Oh, I am lost. What shall I do? What can I 
do?” 

“Can I do anything for you, madam?” said a 
stranger coming up. 

“Oh, dear, sir. I am lost. I can’t find Ruby.” 

“Where are you stopping, madam?” 


ns 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


“I am not stopping anywhere, sir. We are 
travellers. ” 

“I see,” said the stranger. “You are tourists 
in London just for the day.” 

“Oh, no, sir. We have to stay another fortnight, 
for Hiram’s raincoat to be finished. He’s the best 
man. ” 

“ I see, ” says the stranger^calling to an officer who 
was near. 

“This lady has lost her daughter. Can you help 
me find her for her.?” 

“Your name?” 

“Angy Hastings.” 

“Your residence?” 

“I can’t remember. Ruby always takes all the 
care from me. It’s just a step from where I lost 
her, from here. Hiram would die if he^should see 
me lost. What can I do? What shall I do if I 
don’t find her.” 

“Don’t cry,” said a brother officer, running up.” 
“Come with me and all will be well. ” 

“Do you mean officer that I am found. That 
London can’t swallow me and that Ruby in this 
great town has been bright enough to find me? 
What would Lord Neverskeen say if — Don’t 
hmry so, policeman. I am troubled with heart 
disease, lack of breath and too much fiesh. ” 

Ruby from her vantage saw her distracted mother 
approaching on the arm of the officer and ran with 
open arms to meet her. 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


219 


She took a sovereign from her purse and gave it 
to the officer. 

Angy broke down entirely when she saw her dar- 
ling coming. 

“Oh dear, oh dear. The smelling salts, Ruby, the 
smelling salts. I got all turned around and then 
the officer said I turned the wrong way, then the 
right way and then I didn’t know where I came 
from or where I was lost or — ” 

“Never mind, mother, don’t think anything more 
about it, for it’s all over. Will you be so kind as to 
call a carriage, officer,” and the jubilant policeman 
did so with alacrity and helped Mrs. Hastings with 
the greatest concern into the hansom. 

“Let us go to Westminster Abbey in the morning 
and St. Margaret’s Church, if you are not too tired. ” 
“Ruby, I am not in any one place long enough to 
know where I am. That ’s why I got lost. If I should 
go astray in Westminster Abbey and should never 
be found, my ashes would mingle with those of the 
great. But don ’t let me become great that way, will 
you. Ruby? If you promise I will go. Let me hold 
your hand and see what I can in safety. ” 

“Many Kings and Queens are buried in this 
Englis Partheon. Queen Elizabeth and Mary 
Queen of Scots now have their tombs under the same 
roof. The Poet ’s Corner is the Mecca for all 
travellers. Then, mother, we will see the old Corona- 
tion chair in which all English sovereigns have been 
crowned since Edward I.” 


220 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


Memory’s bower in magic way 
Paints new pictures day by day 
It steals from the heart its treasures dear 
And the vintage of the past is clear. 


XLVII 


H ere we are in Liverpool, mother.” 

Before their rooms had been assigned 
to them, Ruby was passed a document, 
or at least a large envelope with seal 
and wax affixed, to keep its contents unmistakably 
behind the closed bars of the seal. 

Mrs. Hastings grew excited, reasoning to herself 
that something must have happened to her Hiram, 
as there was no letter, nothing in fact, but what 
seemed to her a very mysterious happening, as she 
could in no way glean from Ruby its contents. 

“Oh, Ruby!” she cried, “what can be the matter 
with Hiram. Is that something for you to sign? 
You don’t look worried — ” 

“No, mother, I am not worried. It is about 
something of which at this time I must not speak. ” 
“Then it’s about your uncle’s will. Oh, dear! 
Oh, dear! There is never any trouble in families 
till the money question comes up. Oh, dear! oh, 
dear! Let me see the outside of it when we get to 
our rooms. ” 

“Yes, mother, if you wish, ” and she discovered the 
post mark, “Boston.” 

“Oh, Ruby! Who can there be in Boston who 
would send you such a missive. ” 

221 


222 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


“I am very sorry, mother, but don’t worry, or 
think anything more about it. It is all right. ” 

“Oh, dear me. Ruby! Hiram never kept a thing 
from me in his whole life, never! never! never! You 
always was a good girl to tell me things! I never, 
in all your eighteen years, knew you to deliberately 
and meaningly shut me out from your confidence 
before. Let me look at the hand- writing just once 
more! I can’t tell whether it’s a man’s hand or 
not. Oh, dear me, I am more puzzled than ever. 
The ‘R’ looks like a lady’s hand and the Hastings 
looks like a man’s writing. Oh, my head is all 
going round and round and round. Oh, what a 
pity when one word from you would straighten my 
mind all out about the whole affair and now perhaps 
I may never know. Oh, dear! Oh, dear! Ruby!” 

“Dad will send you a letter, I’m sure, so you will 
receive it in a day or so, mother. It’s all right! 
that’s all I can say. I am anxious to hear from 
Evelyn. I do hope I shall not be disappointed. I 
have received a great many letters already, mother, 
and am never satisfied unless I receive more.” 

“Eva is a very straightforward, proud, well- 
meaning girl. I don’t believe you could persuade 
her to keep any secret from her mother.” 

“Evelyn is beautiful,” was Ruby’s quiet reply. 
“I think more and more of her, every letter I get 
from her, — and my replies, mother, — I am afraid 
if you could spoil her by flattery, or praise, that it 
would have been done, long, long ago. She seems 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


223 


so genuine. Her eyes are so kind and true. I 
want to write to her, this very day, mother, a good, 
long letter. You will have a care free time for a 
week at the London and Northwestern hotel before 
sailing. If you feel able we might go out to the old 
town of Chester.” 

“What a lot of things you have to get collected 
together. Ruby. I will stay right here while you 
tend to things and rest. Have the state-room the 
best on the liner, Ruby. ” 

“I engaged it by wire from London, mother. It 
is a deck stateroom. ” 

The ocean journey was over without incident 
until the customs officials were encountered in 
Boston. 

All went well until the trunk marked “Mrs. Hast- 
ings” was arrived at for inspection. 

“Where is the key, mother?” 

“I told the Madam to keep it because — ” 

“Your key,” says the customs official. 

“I don’t know where it is, sir. Can’t I speak to 
you separate from Ruby? It is her wedding dress 
and I don’t want it touched. I will pay anything 
you say only don ’t let her know what ’s in the trunk. ” 

“I am very sorry, madam, but it would be impos- 
sible to waive the rules.” 

“I can’t get it open.” 

“The lock will have to be broken then. I am 
very sorry, but I, as an officer, have to be very 
strict. ” 


224 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


“What have you in that trunk, mother? I 
thought I knew of every piece of baggage that 
either of us had. ” 

“It’s something for you. I can’t have it touched 
and he says he shall have to break the lock. I 
haven’t the key. I didn ’t take it. ” 

“Didn’t take it, mother!” 

Soon a hammer, chisel and other implements 
appeared. 

“Oh, the smelling salts. They’ll ruin it. Oh, 
if Lord Neverskeen was only here, but he couldn’t 
see what the trunk contained, Ruby. Oh, don’t, 
don’t officer. Ruby, you look the other way,” she 
cried as the instrument of torture to Angy tore away 
the fastening with a wicked creaking sound. “Oh 
I shall die! Don’t look. Ruby,” and the soft folds 
of the magnificent robe were revealed. 

After the trunk was carefully inspected the dress 
was restored to its former folds of tissue paper. 
Five hundred dollars was charged to Mrs. Hastings 
which she paid without a murmur. 

“How shall the trunk be fastened. Ruby? You 
can look now. ” 

“I will send for two leather straps, madam,” said 
the customs officer. “I’m very sorry to have put 
your mother to so much misery. ” 

“ I can stand it if you don ’t disclose what you saw 
in the trunk, if you promise that it can be made 
secure with the straps, for it is going way to Califor- 
nia. ” 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


225 


The mischief was finally repaired and Mrs. Hast- 
ings was put into a carriage by Ruby to be driven 
to her friend’s house, Ruby going direct to Evelyn 
Nutting’s, where the days passed all too quickly for 
them both. 


XLVIII 


D ON’T forget the thirtieth of January, 
Evelyn, ” Ruby called laughingly to her 
from the steps as the train pulled out. 
“No, Ruby,” and when the train 
got under way Mrs. Hastings and Ruby settled 
themselves in their drawing-room for their long 
journey across country. 

The trip seemed short as they were rushed along 
on the Golden State Limited and before Mrs. Hast- 
ings realized Santa Barbara loomed up before her. 

Hiram greeted her with open arms as he did Ruby, 
and the span of time which had separated them was 
woven together. 

“Oh, Hiram!” cried Angy, “I never will leave 
you again, never, never, never ! I have had a grand 
time, and if I hadn’t gone Ruby never would have 
met Lord Neverskeen. Oh Hiram, he is coming to 
visit us all this winter and I hope you will approve. ” 
“Angy, we will find some one for Ruby. If one 
does not prove the proper suitor, another one will. 
Don’t worry.” 

“Oh Hiram, I do feel so relieved from responsi- 
bility. Ruby is going over to Yanonalit tomorrow 
and after that she will stay at home. Don’t you 
think she looks better?” 


226 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


227 

‘‘ Yes, Angy, I do, and you have ehanged wonder- 
fully. Your dress is very becoming, your bonnet 
and your wrap.” 

“Oh dear me, Hiram, it is not my dress or bonnet 
or me, it’s just the long separation that’s blotted 
out all my faults. ” 

“You never did have any, Angy,” he said smiling 
on her. “I’ve got some pickled limes up at the 
house. ” 

“I have something for you in our trunks, but Ruby 
told me to keep it a secret until Christmas.” 

“Rebecca Ann and Suky are busy getting ready 
for you. I left the order over to Yanonalit for the 
usual spread for the town’s people. Ruby, to save 
you all I could. I got a tremendous tree and had 
it sent to Mrs. Croby’s for you to decorate with 
gifts, which I knew you would be sure to have for 
the youngsters. ” 

“How thoughtful of you. Dad! I am very grate- 
ful for I am so tired. ” 

“I want to begin to take painting lessons, Hiram 
of some noted teacher after I am rested.” 

“Painting lessons Angy? I don’t understand!” 

“Oh Hiram! I have picked up so much since I 
have been away. Ruby said I could have St. 
Barbara’s Angels (I guess that’s right), hung in 
the tower room which is to be my studio. ” 

“Oh, Angy! you know so much. I shall hesitate 
next time I give my consent to your going away, 
where you can become so much more cultivated 
than I. We shall have nothing in common if Ido.” 


228 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


Christmas came. Hiram handed Angy a small 
package. She took it, looked it all over and then 
broke the seal. 

Opening it she asked Ruby to read. Angy’s eyes 
filled with tears as she listened. 

It was the deed to a hundred thousand dollar 
property located in Seattle, Washington. 

“Oh, oh, oh, Hiram. I haven’t anything for you 
only a lace set from Venice for your room and — 
oh, Hiram. Give me the smelling salts, Rebet^ca 
Ann. Do show it. Ruby. ” 

“You forgot this rug, mother.” 

“Oh, yes. Do bring it out. It’s only a very 
small token, Hiram. I paid five hundred dollars 
for it. ” 

He started to name the price over after her but he 
stopped and looked admiringly at the beautiful 
rug before him. 

“Get Rebecca Ann’s and Suky’s dresses and 
tortoise shell combs. Ruby. Where’s Pansy’s 
collar? She must have that and Delia’s bracelet, 
Peter’s whip and the blankets for the horses,” and 
’mid the floral decorations a joyous Christmas 
indeed was passed, Angy saying over and over 
again that “her Hiram was the best man that ever 
lived. I never will leave Hiram again.” 


XLIX 


M other, dear! I’m destined to be a 
tramp!” 

“Oh, Ruby! what do you mean!” 
“Evelyn is engaged to Mr. Graham 
Morris of Milwaukee!” 

“Oh, I am so pleased. Ruby!” 

The day is set for the wedding, March 30, but 
this is only for our own ears. Evelyn has asked me 
to be her maid of honor.” 

“Hiram! Hiram!” called Angy, “Evelyn Nutting 
is to be married the thirtieth of March and Ruby 
is to be her maid of honor.” 

“Well, well. Ruby,” said her father, entering the 
room. “She’s a nice girl, and I am glad for her. 
Who is the gentleman. Ruby?” 

“Mr. Graham Morris of Milwaukee, a splendid 
fellow, with plenty of means. Where’s Aunt Rebec- 
ca and Suky, Dad? They must know.” 

“Come down and hear the news, Rebecca,” 
called Hiram, at the landing. 

“What about,” said Rebecca, bustling down 
stairs, into the sitting room, where she found intense 
excitement, Angy’s crochet work was on the floor. 
Ruby’s letter was held in Hiram’s hand, and Ruby 
229 


230 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


herself went forward to be the first to spread the 
news to Aunt Rebecca. 

“Where is Suky?” she exclaimed as her aunt 
entered. 

“I don’t know, I am sure — she was going out!” 

“Ruby has got to go back east before the thirtieth 
of March, ” said Angy. 

“For pity sake what for?” 

“Oh, Aunt Rebecca, let me tell you that Evelyn 
Nutting is engaged, and I am to be her maid of 
honor.” 

“Graham Morris, did you say?” 

“Yes, Aunt Rebecca.” 

“That’s a good name. Who’d a thought she 
would have found a beau before you. Ruby. Did 
you know there was anybody interested in her?” 

“Yes, I will confess all, I urged her to go to Mrs. 
Stacy’s house telling her there was to be a surprise 
party, knowing he was to be there. ” 

“Oh, how funny,” says Angy. “That was the 
date you guarded her not to forget when she left us 
at the station. ” 

“She just met him the thirtieth of January and 
now it’s the middle of March.” 

“Oh, Ruby, don’t you ever do any such a way. 
It’s positively disgraceful. How any girl knows 
her own mind in six weeks, I can’t see.” 

“Well, Rebecca Ann,” says Hiram, “you’ve 
taken plenty of time to pick out your beau. ” 

“Ruby couldn’t do it up as quick as that,” says 
Angy, “for she met him close on to a year ago. ” 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


231 


“Who/’ says Rebecca excitedly. 

“Lord—” 

“Mother, dear!” 

“Don’t inquire too close, Rebecca Ann,” says 
Hiram. 


L 


T O the surprise and comment of some of the 
young people, Ruby absents herself from 
them a few days before the wedding but 
when Evelyn ’s bridal day arrives Ruby 
appears with the other guests at the magnificent 
home of Mr. and Mrs. Nutting. 

The house, which is in Brookline, is grand and 
spacious, set high on terraced grounds. The decora- 
tions are of rare orchids and palms. The rush of 
carriages leaving their precious freight is constant. 
The glitter of the electricity brings out the magni- 
ficence of the toilettes. One by one we pick out 
the familiar faces. 

Promptly at eight o’clock the bridal party take 
their places. The fair maid of honor, which is Ruby, 
precedes the bride. 

Never had she looked sweeter, her friends thought. 
Her beautiful Parisian gown, though simple, of 
softest pink, clung in graceful folds about her. 

Following closely was Evelyn, on the arm of her 
father, in rich ivory satin carrying a shower bouquet 
of orchids and lilies of the valley. 

The party halted under a canopy of orchids and 
ferns and the minister, in clear distinct accents 


232 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


233 


pronounced the words so dear to Evelyn and then 
mid the whirl of congratulations they passed out in 
joyous meters until Ruby was called hastily from 
the happy company. A dispatch had been handed 
to her to the effect that the friends of her mother, 
whom she had visited before her return west, desired 
Ruby to come to them immediately. 

Ruby, full of gloomy forebodings for the well 
being presumably of her family west, hastened her 
departure, leaving as quietly as possible. 

The carriage was at the door. She gave the driver 
careful and concise directions as to where to go and 
what to do. 

The door closed upon our fair heroine. 

A stranger, as the door clicked, held a hurried 
conversation with the driver and both stepped on to 
the box together. 

What were Ruby’s thoughts? Perhaps she had 
pictured some terrible accident to her father, and 
what was the man with the driver thinking about? 

The horses were hurried along, keeping up an 
even trot until Copley Square in Boston was reached. 
Here, as if frightened, they turned the corner into 
Dartmouth street making a dangerous skidding but 
the dextrous hand of the coachman righted the hack 
with a quick pull of the reins and the carriage rolled 
on until an apothecary ’s in the vicinity was reached. 
Here the horses were brought to an abrupt halt. 
Ruby alighting quickly, leaving the carriage door 
ajar, and going directly to the telephone booth where 


234 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


she stayed a few minutes, then she emerged, made 
a small purchase and then retraced her steps. 

Next we see the carriage with its occupant being 
whirled madly along down the main thoroughfare 
towards the Common. 

It was now ten o’clock. The West Boston bridge 
was crossed, then on and on they went towards the 
open country. The moon’s rays no more lighted 
the heavens. The roadway was narrow and rough. 

Suddenly a halt was made. A heavily laden 
produce team loaded with barrels and boxes for the 
Boston market had got stuck in the mud across the 
road in such a way that the hack could not pass. 
They tried to back their team and in so doing the 
axle broke, letting down the whole conglomerate 
mass on to the hack and about the horses in one 
tangled heap. 

The horses took fright and rushed madly forward 
through a densely wooded road. Not slackening 
their pace they rushed ahead for the bridge. The 
carriage careened and in a moment more was in an 
unshapely mass against the rail. 

The driver was thrown with his companion and 
injured. The horses cleared themselves and rushed 
frantically forward until their resounding hoof beats 
became but a faint medley of sound away in the 
distance. 

The bells from the distant clock tower struck one. 

At this time a covered buggy containing a man 
approached the easterly end of the bridge. 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


235 


Then, hurrying along with lantern and search 
lights, came two men on foot. 

From the opposite direction another carriage 
approached with but a single passenger. 

“Whose team was that?” said the two. 

“I met the horses tearing along the road and I 
went for neighbor Beady here to put up a quick 
search. ” 

“Here is one passenger,” cried one of the men, 
the driver, as his number indicated. 

He is unconscious and is lifted into the first and 
largest carriage. The other man is rescued, seeming- 
ly badly injured and is taken away in the smaller 
buggy after a hurried consultation as to the wearer 
of the woman’s apparel that lay scattered along the 
bridge. 

“Let us have your names and addresses,” said the 
man in the smaller carriage, “in case the affair should 
require any evidence on our behalf,” and this being 
accomplished, the two injured men were borne away 
in haste leaving the two pedestrians throwing their 
lights this way and that in a search to reveal the 
owner of the scattered belongings. 

Now they threw their lights into the river below, 
then along the bank, then in turn back by the road- 
side. 

Not a sound save the swash of the lapping river 
on its bank. 

Then the silence was brought to a close by the 
swearing of one of the men. 


236 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


“This is the strangest affair I ever heard of. 
Where is the owner of this wearing apparel.?” and 
he picked up an evening wrap, the pieces of rare 
lace, torn and tattered, hanging to it. 

“Coming from some kind of party, I should say. 
Not many fixings of this order around these parts,” 
and the hunt went steadily on until day dawned 
and they gave up their search for the time being. 

“This is the biggest puzzle I ever had laid out 
afore me to fathom, ” one said to the other, “but only 
time can decipher it. I don’t like the idea of giving 
up beat. I never did. Alius afore I have been able 
to pick up some clue, but in this case the fragments 
of the dress are the clues to be sure, but they are 
hitched to fathomless space as if they dropped down 
from the clouds. Queer, queer,” he muttered as he 
went farther and farther away. 

The townspeople were shocked to read in the 
Boston papers of the disaster. The item read: 

“Carriage smash-up — driver and occupants of a 
hack coming from Boston way thrown and badly 
injured. The fragments of garments of a young 
woman, presumably a passenger returning from a 
dance, were found scattered along the bridge but 
the body can not be found. No clue as yet that 
would in any way throw any light on the affair. ” 

A crowd of gaping loafers, intermingled with the 
town’s people bent on dragging the river, poured in 
upon the scene. 

Souvenirs of the tangled mass of wreckage of the 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


237 


carriage were eagerly gouged from the cushions, the 
wheels and fragments of the reins, and from the 
crowd were discerned the two men that at daybreak 
had left their arduous hunt. 

Hurrying up to them are the two strangers that 
had borne the injured men away. 

“Well, no clue, the paper says.” 

“That’s about it,” came the answer. 

“Will the men pull through?” 

“Yes, I think so. They are at the hospital. The 
driver has regained consciousness and the unknown 
man is not as badly hurt as was supposed at first. ” 
“That’s good, but the girl’s fate is a mystery. 
Her body must be somewhere in the vicinity. If in 
the river the current is very sluggish along here. ” 
“The hospital authorities, I think, know more 
than they will tell. This I am sure of, that the 
attendants to this stranger,” he said, lowering his 
voice, “have found an anonymous letter in the 
fellow’s overcoat pocket and in another a bottle 
of chloroform. It, the letter, gave the impression 
that this young woman was going to run off with 
some fellow and he, the injured man, was advised to 
stay close to her to protect her. ” 

Here the conversation was interrupted by the 
shout from the searchers that a hat had been found 
some way down the river bank. 

Excitement ran riot all day, but night came 
without another clue, and the neighborhood was 
left dazed. 


LI 


S HALL we look in upon the home circle at 
Montecito. The household is greatly con- 
cerned over the sudden illness of Mrs. Hast- 
ings. The doctor pronounces her case one 
of kidney trouble, which affects her eyesight, also 
brings about a bad swelling of her limbs. 

Mr. Hastings is consulting the doctor in the sitting 
room as we arrive. 

“What is best for us to do. Dr. Klingwinter, ” said 
Mr. Hastings. 

“Keep her absolutely quiet! Let no one see her. 
Let her daughter know, of course, of her serious 
condition, but in no way by any action on your part 
let her see a trace of your concern for her. Let her 
think that she will be up and around in a few days at 
longest. This is not deceit on your part, Mr. Hast- 
ings, but what in such cases brings forth a favorable 
result quicker. She might brood over her condition 
if it were not so. ” 

“I understand,” says Mr. Hastings, wiping his 
eyes with his handkerchief. “ It shall be as you say. 
I will ask you to speak to Miss Rebecca and my 
niece on your way out. Doctor. I will go to my wife, ” 
but he was called below stairs by a dispatch close 
after the doctor’s departure. 

238 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


239 


He grew nervous as he always did if any message 
from the east was received. 

He opened and read. It was a message from 
some one that was urging him to come east as quickly 
as possible that awakened in him thoughts of troubles 
of some kind for Ruby. 

He was also warned not to let Angenette suspect 
any trouble and for all members of the household 
to keep the knowledge of the message entirely to 
themselves. So without divulging anything, he 
starts off, Angy presuming it is a little business in 
Seattle. 

Now shall we follow him closely. After an un- 
eventful run across country he is met by a stranger 
in Boston. 

The two take a carriage and are driven hurriedly 
away. 

Next we look upon Mr. Hastings boarding a train 
back west. 

We ask what all this is about. 


LII 


P AUL Stacy, for he is the passenger that 
took his seat beside the driver on the 
fated night unbeknown to Ruby, is released 
from the hospital. 

He carries the thrilling and awful news home, 
picturing out the whole affair. 

All Wellesley is enveloped in gloom as he repeats 
the horrible tale — ^how the provision team collided 
with the hack, how he and the driver had been taken 
to the hospital, and how Ruby’s body had disap- 
peared completely. Presumably, as the carriage 
struck the bridge rail, she had been thrown into the 
river and drowned. He had learned from the nurses 
that her hat and fragments of her clothing had been 
found close to the spot. 

Evelyn, of course, was not at home. What a 
terrible blow to her, thought Paul, upon her return 
from her bridal trip. 

Consternation reigned. Upon inquiry Mr. Stacy 
found that no message had been sent to Ruby’s 
parents, as all newspaper accounts had not in any 
way intimated who the victims of the accident 
were, 

m 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


241 


“Oh, what a terrible thing,” he thought. “A 
beautiful young life cut down without a moment’s 
warning.” His own heart was bleeding. He had 
done all in his power. He tried to console himself. 
Had he foreseen the accident, which of course he 
could not, he would have prevented it, as he really 
thought by going he was befriending her. The 
news spread now as if on wings. All Montecito 
was in a frenzy. 

Rebecca Ann and Suky were prostrated over the 
news. All Yanonalit was thrown into the deepest 
gloom. 

Callers began thronging to the Hastings home. 
All California knew of the sudden grief that had 
come to this household. 

Angy, to be sure, knew nothing. She was still 
very sick. Mr. Hastings, true to the doctor’s 
commands, had kept all news from her. 

Rebecca Ann at length braced herself and saw 
some of the visitors. Delia was beside herself. 

“How kin Oi kape it from her mither iny way 
longer, ” she said to the doctor. 

“You must, that is all,” was his decided answer. 
“This is a time to show your strength. Her life 
depends absolutely on quiet, Delia. ” 

Suky at the height of the excitement received a 
letter from her lawyer, Russell Gore, requesting an 
early interview. This was complied with. Rebecca 
Ann, pale and worn, steps into the lawyer’s presence, 
with her niece Suky Rocks. He brings up to them 


242 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


how they approached him about breaking the will, 
and hints to them if the fact be divulged by him, 
how they might be blamed for the disappearance of 
Ruby. 

He also informs Suky of her visit to the Oriental 
Seer in Santa Barbara. 

Strange to say he tells Suky of some of the ques- 
tions she asked the medium, which were facts some- 
what incriminating. 

They were terribly worked up over his conversa- 
tion, especially Suky. Her face grew pale, and she 
looked dazed, but a gleam of joy passed over the 
lawyer’s face at the outcome of the interview, as 
Rebecca Ann and Suky passed out distressed and 
worried looking. 


LIII 


A familiar face attracts us as the western 
train is threading its way toward the 
Golden State. 

We recognize her to be the Orient- 
alist that we viewed with Suky Rocks at the 
Hotel some time before. 

Again as we follow her we find her located with 
her maid at the same hotel. 

She is reading a letter in a man’s handwriting 
and observing still farther we catch some name of 
interest to us but of which we cannot speak and with 
the memory of it we see Suky Rocks, not in imagina- 
tion but in reality, stepping into this, to her the 
sanctifying presence of Madam Calif. 

The medium smiles a genial recognition and as 
before bows low. 

“What can I do for you today? You seem to be 
undecided in your own mind what to do about what 
is to you of such vital importance. Go ahead 
as your lawyer requests. You may trust him. Let 
another executor be appointed. It will be for your 
good. Your cousin is dead. You will have in- 
creased property. You will attract the doctor if 
you choose. Go!” said the medium pointing de- 
243 


244 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


cidedly. “ Go. Do as I say, ” and Suky made a hasty 
retreat, her brain awhirl. 

“Shall I at last realize my hopes?” 

She was then entering the carriage and Peter with 
the old time pomp set the horses to the usual trot, 
all unmindful of the excitement that held Suky with 
a death-like grip. 

“It shall be so. She has told me it is well. At 
last I shall be rich, grand, and glorious with the man 
of my choice at last falling at my feet. I will write 
Russell Gore at once to go ahead and petition to the 
court and then my part is done. Time will accom- 
plish the rest. Of course I shall expect to pay him 
well but it will be a mere pittance at most in com- 
parison with my great wealth so soon to be at my 
command. ” 


LIV 


R AYMUND Gerard seats himself com- 
fortably in the train that is leaving 
New York for the west. 

We at once pronounce him more, 
prosperous looking, more business like if possible 
than when we last saw him at Seattle. 

He took his paper from his pocket, but by noting 
closely his every move, we mistrust that from the 
cover of this breastwork he is quietly watching a 
certain passenger that the porter has just shown to 
the section nearest the drawing room. 

Morning dawns. The hours pass. Raymund’s 
face wears a puzzled expression. The section 
nearest the drawing room is vacant. He holds a 
low confidential conversation with the conductor 
and seems satisfied, then as if fancy led him he 
makes a bolt presumably for the observation car for 
there we find him sitting in one of the easy arm 
chairs, facing the retreating sleepers in a meditative 
mood. Of a sudden he jumps to his feet and makes 
for the writing desk in the rear. 

In so doing he comes face to face with a fair 
passenger, bows low, steps to one side and seats 
himself for his task. 


244 


246 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


The train sped on. Raymund seemed to be 
dreaming. The letter was finished, but why did 
he linger Another passenger impatiently sat and 
watched him, then asked if he were through. 

Raymund jumped to his feet with many apologies 
and took the stranger’s seat. 

Another link in the chain of circumstances, 
another coincidence. There beside him sat the idol 
of his heart. 

She glances from her book as he seats himself. 

Another silence and then as if fate decreed, an 
unobserving passenger swept past them brushing 
the young woman’s wrap from her lap. Raymund 
picked it up and passed it to her. 

“Thank you,” she said, “I am greatly obliged.” 

The first dinner call was given. The fair passen- 
ger wended her way as best she could for the dining 
car, stopping only a second at her drawing room to 
brush back her wealth of dark hair before doing so, 
and was shown by the head waiter to the only 
available seat. 

Raymund Gerard sat opposite and as the meal 
proceeded entered into conversation with the retiring 
young lady before him. 

“Are you travelling far.f^” he ventured. 

“Yes, sir, to Seattle.” 

“How delightful. That is my destination. Is 
your home there? May I ask your name? Here is 
my card. ” 

“Thank you, Mr. Gerard, you may call me Vivian 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


247 


Sleeper. I am an actress, that is all I can say. 
Actresses have their part to play both on the stage 
and off. I have my reasons for not being too com- 
municative with people. I am fleeing from my would 
be rivals. Don’t look so perplexed, Mr. Gerard. 
I am not an imposter, neither am I an adventuress. ” 

“Would it be asking too much of you. Miss Sleeper, 
if I requested that I might talk with you a short 
while in the observation car.f^” 

“It really would give me pleasure, Mr. Gerard. 
Time does hang so heavy on a long journey if you 
don’t make acquaintances.” 

And merrily ran the conversation far beyond the 
time limit. 

Day after day the fellow travellers thought they 
were following a well defined romance, for Vivian, 
once acquainted, was extremely fascinating. 

Raymund was desperately in love with Miss 
Vivian, no one could doubt. 

Seattle was reached. Miss Sleeper bade him 
farewell, promising to write him very soon and 
Raymund went his way. 

He became extremely busy with his business, his 
mining interests and last of all, when we lose sight 
of him, he is closing a deal, he having purchased 
one of the handsomest residences in Seattle for 
investment. 


LV 


A nd shall we hasten to pick up the 
ravelled thread of thought in this 
romance? 

After several interviews with his 
clients, Suky Rocks and Rebecca Ann Hastings, 
Russell Gore petitions the Probate Court for a date 
to be set when a hearing can be had to request the 
appointment of another executor to serve with 
Hiram Hastings, sole executor under the will of 
his Jbrother, the late William Hastings of Seattle, 
Washington. 

Russell Gore receives the date in due time from 
the Court for this hearing for the twenty-seventh of 
April. 

Lawyer Gore is secretly hoping to get the ap- 
pointment himself. 

The day arrives. The defence have availed them- 
selves in the time given to produce witnesses, for 
with Mr. Hastings are Lord and Norcross, his attor- 
neys and four or more men. 

Russell Gore, counsel for Suky Rocks and Rebecca 
Ann Hastings, has the Oriental Seer with her maid, 
as witnesses. 


248 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


249 


Russell Gore takes the stand to present his clients * 
petition for the appointment of the second executor. 

Having been duly sworn he presents his case. 

On the evening of March 30, 1900, Ruby Hastings 
of Montecito, California, the chief beneficiary under 
the will of William Hastings of Seattle, Wash., was 
without doubt killed in a runaway accident in a 
Boston suburb between the hours of eleven P. M. 
and one o’clock the following morning, as proof 
positive has been found in clothing known to belong 
to Ruby Hastings. 

This hat and wrap have been identified by Hiram 
Hastings, the father of the said Ruby Hastings, as 
property belonging to his daughter. 

Under the will of the late William Hastings, in 
the event of the death of any legatee, his or her 
bequest should be equally divided among the re- 
maining beneficiaries. 

Mr. Hastings was appointed sole executor. “In 
behalf of the interest of my clients a second executor 
should be appointed. ” 

Mr. Hastings ’ lawyers requested Russell Gore to 
take the stand as a witness and be sworn. 

This he did with alacrity. 

“Where were you Mr. Gore in March, 1900?” 

“Travelling in California and Mexico.” 

“Where were you the night of March 30, 1900?” 

“San Diego, California.” 

The next witness was one of the pedestrians who 
came to the bridge the night of the tragedy. 

“I believed the then unknown woman to have 
been drowned, sir.” 


250 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


His companion, known to us as Beady, was called, 
duly sworn and he confirmed the belief of the other 
that the young woman was drowned. 

“Have you ever seen Russell Gore before?*’ 
questioned the lawyer in clear ringing words. 

“Yes, sir.” 

“Where?” 

“He came to the bridge on the fatal night in a 
carriage. ” 

A dead silence ensued. Then another question 
came. 

“Had you had any previous dealings with Mr. 
Gore before that night?” 

“Yes, sir.” 

“For what purpose?” 

“I was hired by him, sir, to assist in the abduc- 
tion.” 

“That’s all,” said the lawyer looking at Mr. 
Gore, scathingly. 

“Will Mr. Grantville step upon the stand again? 

“To your best knowledge, Mr. Grantville, was 
there any other man or woman implicated in the 
plot to abduct this girl?” 

“Yes, sir. A woman.” 

“Would you know her if you should see her?” 

“Yes, sir. She is sitting in this court room.” 

A stir came among the spectators, a craning of 
necks and bodies and whispers of “who is she?” 
came from the throng. 

The next and last witness was called ’mid the 
excitement — the occupant of the smaller buggy. 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


251 


The door of the court room opened and Ruby 
Hastings entered and stood before the astonished 
court. 

Consternation held the company in a herculean 
grip for one instant, then the truth swept the assem- 
bled people. Pandemonium reigned. The Oriental 
Seer was attacked with heart failure and borne 
between two stalwart court officials to an ante-room 
to die. 

She had been struck by death from fright, the 
doctor said. 


LVI 


perjury 


R ussell Gore was held for 
and attempted abduction. 

His face grew white and drawn as 
Rebecca Ann Hastings rose and asked 
to be heard. 

“Your honor,” she said, drawing herself up to her 
full height. “I have been drawn into this affair in 
carrying out what I thought to be my duty, first, to 
see the length the said Suky Rocks would go against 
her cousin. Ruby Hastings, then, as the intriguing 
lawyer and false friend of Ruby got together, I, as 
well as Suky Rocks, have been threatened and 
driven to promising and assigning as this lawyer 
saw fit until his last act of having another executor 
appointed, which now I am sure was for the sole 
purpose of cheating the estate of the said William 
Hastings, my brother, out of a large amount to be 
divided as spoils between himself and Ruby’s false 
friend. ” 

A hush fell over the place as the official came in 
and in low, penetrating words said that the Orienta- 
list, after great mental agony, had passed away. 

The two men that had so grandly come forward 
and implicated Russell Gore were dismissed blame- 
252 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


253 


less as the men and women were passing hurriedly 
to the ante-room to view the remains. 

“Beatrice Vandyke, can it be possible?” cried 
Ruby as she viewed the lifeless form of her 
would-be slayer. 

“Oh, Dad, how could she?” and she would have 
fallen had it not been for the prompt move of none 
other than Raymund Gerard. 

“Sit down. Miss Hastings.” 

“Oh, can it be possible, Mr. Gerard, that you are 
here?” 

“Vivian,” he said, as he held her hand, “Vivian 
Sleeper. I can see why you were such a good ac- 
tress. ” 

Their reverie was broken when a sharp cry came 
from Suky’s lips as she realized the Orientalist’s 
duplicity, how she herself had been the victim of that 
deception and with a glint of goodness shining 
through her rough exterior, she asked Ruby ’s forgive- 
ness and with a heart full of sympathy toward her 
false cousin. Ruby took her hand and granted it. 

And ’mid the confusion of it all Ruby heard the 
ringing accents that came like a benediction to her 
troubles. “Whatever comes in your life you will 
always be protected from harm.” 

What speaking words they were to her that wafted 
her out into the still air away from everything 
unpleasant. 

Mrs. Hastings was up and about when Ruby 
arrived, totally oblivious of all that had passed. 


254 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


She held an open letter in her hand and her face 
fairly beamed as she thrust it before her Ruby to 
^read. 

“He is coming in just a month. I hope Hiram 
will approve. ” 

Mr. Gerard at this moment emerged from the 
path, with Mr. Hastings. 

Mrs. Hastings stood motionless. 

“Mother, dear, father is coming.” 

“Who has he with him. Ruby?” 

“Angy,” said Hiram, his face beaming, “here is 
our future son-in-law.” 

“Son-in-law, oh my breath. How do you do, 
son-in-law,” she said, passing up her hand that still 
was clutching the folded letter from Lord Nevers- 
keen. “I am just getting over a slight attack of 
sickness. What does Hiram mean. Ruby? Is he 
joking his Angy?” 

Raymund stepped quickly forward and took both 
of Mrs. Hastings’ hands in his and led her to one of 
the rustic seats near by. 

Here he poured out in accents of the lover all his 
heartfelt feelings for her daughter, all about their 
engagement and even the day that was set for their 
wedding, which was the fourth of October. 

“What shall I do? What shall I do,” moaned 
Angy. “Read this,” she said, passing the crumpled 
pages of Lord Neverskeen’s letter before his reluctant 
gaze. 

“Oh, this is such a surprise for you, Mrs. Hastings. 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


255 


I don’t blame you one bit. Mr. Hastings meant 
no harm but he did thrust the news upon you hoping 
to give you a happy surprise.” 

“Does Hiram like you?” she said, looking at him 
imploringly. 

“Here he comes now. Let him speak for himself, 
Mrs. Hastings. ” 

“Her wedding dress is all made that she was to 
wear when she married Lord Neverskeen, Mr. 
Gerard, but Hiram don’t know it.” 

“Oh, wifey, why are you in tears? Cheer up, 
that’s a dear. Raymund, here, is the nicest fellow 
ever born. ” 

“I don’t doubt it, Hiram, but it is such a blow 
because I considered Ruby the same as engaged to 
Lord Neverskeen.” 

“There! there! Angy. Your nerves are all un- 
strung. ” 

“You see our Ruby has had a lot of beaux. Jack 
Templeton was very ardent but none has pleased 
me like you, Raymund,” said Hiram, his face 
beaming. “I never saw this Lord Neverskeen, 
Angy speaks about. Wifey, come with me to see 
the new garden. Raymund, you fetch Ruby. ” 

“New garden, Hiram, where?” 

“Lean on my arm, dear, we will come upon it in 
a minute.” 

“Oh Hiram,” she exclaimed, “what a beautiful 
spot. ” 

Lord Neverskeen ’s letter fell from her hands in 
her excitement. 


256 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


It seemed like another world, for there before her 
was a miniature wind-mill, Dutch plants, pergola 
and curving walks. 

“Oh Hiram, when did you have all this done?” 

“You see Raymund’s ancestors came from Hol- 
land and I thought it a novel scheme to honor our 
future son-in-law in this way.” 

“Oh, what magnificent flowers, Hiram. What is 
this?” 

“These are the Japanese pergola, Angy. This 
is the staghorn fern from Australia.” 

“Oh, Hiram, what a fairy land of verdure. This 
is what you were overseeing when you said you were 
away in Seattle on business, wan’t it? I never saw 
such palms, such rare flowers all laid out in such 
handsome terraced effects.” 

“ Imagine this place lit up with electricity, Angy, 
and strains of the wedding march floating about it. ” 

“Oh, what are these, Hiram?” 

“Those are Chinese jupiters and this is a Japanese 
cypress, claimed to be over a thousand years old.” 

“And these?” 

“I forget, Angy. I shall have to have them 
marked. Look ahead, Angy, ” and there sure enough 
was a sunken Italian garden, with marble stands 
with dainty flowers held in bird-like holders. 

“Oh, Hiram, it will never do for me to come here 
alone for I should get lost the same as I did when I 
was in London.” 

“Lost, Angy,” said Hiram, “in London!” 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


257 


“Oh, I shouldn’t have told you, Hiram. I got 
Ruby to promise never to tell but I did get lost and 
it was only by Ruby’s great sagacity that I was 
found. ” 

“Here they come now,” says Hiram. “Let us 
straighten out this Lord Neverskeen business, 
Angy. Raymund is our Ruby’s choice and that, 
if for no other reason, should be ours.” 

“Yes, Hiram, but Lord Neverskeen, he was such 
a good man, too. How will I straighten it, Hiram? 
You do it. Sit down son-in-law and Ruby,” 
says Angy. “Hiram wants to straighten out about 
Lord Neverskeen. ” 

“ Why, Angy, I really don ’t know anything about 
him,” pleaded Hiram. “I meant for you to.” 

“Oh, Ruby, I can’t. You do it. Tell him every- 
thing. How you first met him, how kind he was 
and how much he admired your voice and leave out 
if you must what he said to you in parting, if you 
don’t want to divulge that, perhaps Mr. Gerard 
would overlook it. Wouldn’t you, son-in-law?” 

“Why, really, Mrs. Hastings,” he began, not 
knowing just what to say. 

“She never told me or I surely would tell you,” 
Angy ran on, thinking this the only way to pass 
over it. 

“Mother, dear, I never expected to marry Lord 
Neverskeen. I don’t understand why all this 
seeming apology is required. ” 

“I never said before to you. Ruby, but I was so 


258 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


sure you would have him that I had your bridal 
dress made in Paris and I have it in the house. ” 

“My bridal dress. Impossible, mother.” 

“Yes, Hiram come help me get the trunk open. 
They mutilated the lock at the custom house. ” 

The truth dawned upon Ruby. 

That was the something in the trunk that she 
could not see. 

Her face grew crimson. 

Raymond saw the joke and they went together 
and viewed the gorgeous Parisian robe, Hiram 
laughing the whole affair off as a huge joke that he 
was not aware his Angy was capable of. 

“I won’t ever even suggest again, Angy, that 
you can’t keep a secret for I know you can.” 

Raymond smiled and looking toward Ruby, he 
said, “If it had been you, instead of your mother, 
that had become so enamored of this most worthy 
lord, I would not have been the happy man that I 
am today.” 

Ruby’s cheeks flushed and Mr. Hastings, wanting 
Angy to become reconciled as soon as possible, 
suggested that Raymond should show her the ad- 
ditions to the house which until this moment he had 
not divulged. 

“This house, Hiram?” 

“Yes. That’s why I have always seen to it that 
you have had your meals served to you in your 
room,” and off she went on Raymond’s arm. 

“Now, Ruby, I want to show you another plant 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


259 


out in the garden, to see if you can tell me what it 
is, ” said her father. 

Once there he began plying Ruby with questions. 

“It came across me last night how you got your 
information, your warning, of all this scheming 
against your life, in time to escape. I knew the 
man was a detective that met me in Boston, when I 
was sent for, but what inkling did you receive and 
from whom that made you scent the danger and hire 
this officer to look out for you at that time. ’’ 

“I will tell you. Dad. I went to a dinner at a 
Mrs. Stanhouse’s, to her daughter’s coming out party 
and there they told me the wonderful results of 
going to a certain first class astrologer. They urged 
me to go and have a reading just before leaving 
college for the Christmas holidays at the time of the 
big storm and I did. He told me my life was in 
danger and not to leave Boston until a certain time, 
so I escaped the storm. Naturally, I went again 
on my return from Europe. It was then he warned 
me about the plan to harm me and of my secret 
enemies, so I hired the detective to take my place in 
the carriage on that eventful ride when a certain 
apothecary’s was reached, I going back to my room 
on Beacon HiU. ” 

“Well, I never. Ruby. How strange — and I 
can’t blame you one bit. There must be something 
in such things after all. ” 

“Ah! Good morning,” said Mr. Hastings looking 
up as a step on the gravel warned him of a visitor. 


LVII 


E arly in September, Raymund with a 
trusty servant made a short trip to his 
timber land in the Cascade mountains. 
They were just nearing camp when 
out of the forest came the notes of a solemn dirge. 
“Faith, sor, what is that, Mr. Gerard?” 

Raymund listened. His eyes stared for a some- 
thing he could not see. 

“That voice,” he spoke aloud. “Where have I 
heard it before?” 

He covered his eyes as if recollection would serve 
him better if he shut everything from his vision. 

At that instant Martin called to him to look quick 
and there close to the mountain stream a man was 
walking to and fro. 

“Solitude, you have my secret,” came the clear 
tenor voice. “Misery, be gone,” he declaimed and 
then dropped to the ground and buried his face in 
his hands and it is in this posture we remember the 
anguish and disappointment of none other than 
Jack Templeton. 

“Ah, how few,” said he to himself, “mourn as he 
has. What a sad picture and yet how sweet the 
life that can command such idolatry, ” and Raymund 
unseen bade Martin hasten with him back to the 
world. 


260 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


261 


**Sit down on this seat, Dr. Hosford. Here’s 
Ruby. How did you find your way, doctor, through 
this labyrinth of bloom 

“Isn’t Dad the dearest man to give us such a 
surprise in this new garden?” 

“Well, yes,” said he, mechanically, secretly 
dreading his mission. 

“Your niece. Miss Rocks, asked me to call, Mr. 
Hastings, in regard to her property left her by her 
Uncle William.” 

“Her legacy,” said Hiram, his forehead knotting. 

“Yes, Mr. Hastings, ’tis this way. She has 
explained her underhanded dealings against your 
daughter, she has told me how Miss Hastings for- 
gave her everything and how it filled her so with 
remorse and shame for what she had done that she 
wants to leave your home to become a missionary to 
try to make reparation for her former sins.” 

“Well, I’ll make over her money. Dr. Hosford.” 

The clergyman cleared his throat, looked a moment 
toward the beauty on every hand and began, “ Miss 
Rocks has experienced religion and asks that she 
may be excused from meeting any of the family until 
she becomes born again, as it were, in her new life. ” 

“Don’t cry. Ruby. So you are a reformer with 
all the rest, eh, ” says Hiram. 

“I’ll see you tomorrow at eleven o’clock,” and 
the reverend gentleman bowed and made a hasty 
exit. 


Lvni 


A ll Yanonalit was in a whirl of excite- 
ment. Aunt Lucinda Stebbins, with the 
rest, for Ruby ’s wedding day was close 
at hand. 

Old and young were making gifts for Ruby, Mrs. 
Croby guiding the children in weaving the loving 
tokens of their own handiwork. 

And the rosy lips of dawn proclaimed the bridal 
morn. 

How beautiful upon the mountain Dame Nature 
sang, as she peered through the mist of the awaken- 
ing hour. 

What lyric charm the dew drops have as they 
rest in the arms of day. 

What prophet’s pen could dispel the charm of 
eagle heights! 

What mythical Garuda could still the winged 
clarion of the rocky peaks! 

What symphony of thought when the billowy 
clouds become the mouthpiece of creation, and the 
rhododendron and the laurel stand mute and grand 
in their wild home of beauty. 

Catch the breath of the ocean zephyrs wafted 
from a sun-kissed shore. 


262 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


263 


Feel the touch of the Master’s hand in the laby- 
rinth of olive and palm trees, the yucca and the 
bamboo. 

See the sycamore and the pepper trees and the 
bearded oaks, mute guardians of the place. 

Hark, does imagination call? 

Does the poetry of motion lure us on? 

Look! Behold! 

A flood of sunshine illumined the magniflcent 
courtyard at the Hastings home. 

The magnitude and grandeur of the place held 
the guests spellbound. 

What surprises from every arch and balcony. 

Here Apollo seemed to look upon the festive 
scene, there the water nymphs guarding the fountain 
whose pure waters invited all to quench their thirst 
and from the numberless palms and palmettos the 
dainty lilies peered and from yonder terraced perch 
the acacia nodded to the breeze and the forget-me- 
nots with up-turned faces said “ ’tis well, ” for out 
of the recesses of somewhere came the strains of the 
wedding march. 

Nearer and clearer, and from the outlook of the 
balcony a bevy of children with flags and flowers 
emerged, glided down the fern bordered staircase 
and made a human guard around the mosaic at the 
center of the courtyard. 

All eyes were expectant for the bride and as she 
entered on the arm of her father a halo of glory 
filled the place. 


£64 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


What a picture to hang in the memory like a 
beautiful star whose radiant light is felt the length 
and breadth of its ways ! 

Her magnificent Parisian gown clung in rich folds 
of ivory satin about her. The delicately embroid- 
ered orange blossoms glimmering under the filmy 
gauze of the bridal veil, caught by a diamond tiara, 
gift of the groom. 

Thus Raymund, radiant and happy, beheld his 
bride. 

As the impressive ceremony which united these 
two lives together ended, Angy murmured to Hiram 
that “their Ruby was the prettiest bride in all the 
land.’’ 

“Oh Ruby,” says Angy hysterically, “I can’t 
remember what Rebecca Ann told me to say. Hiram 
you congratulate them, that ’s a dear. ” 

“Angy wants for words but not for the heartiest, 
most heartfelt and grandest success to follow you 
both along life’s happy way,” says Hiram warmly. 

“Boo-hoo,” cried Angy, “to think I couldn’t 
congratulate my own daughter and son-in-law. 
What a dreadful thing. ” 

“It’s all right, mother, dear, isn’t it Raymund?” 

“Most certainly, mother. You wanted secretly 
all the time to bring into prominence your husband ’s 
eloquence. ” 

“Well,” says Rebecca Ann, stepping up, “don’t 
look for oratory from me. I wish you both happi- 
ness, long life, and prosperity,” and she passed on 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


265 


giving room for the crush of guests who were anxious- 
ly awaiting their turn to congratulate the happy 
pair. 

Strains of festive music came from a breastwork 
of palms and from a massive tent dainty delicacies 
were being served. 

Lord Neverskeen, Dr. Klingwinter, Evelyn Mor- 
ris, with her husband, Claude Adair and Paul Stacy 
were prominent figures. 

Praise for the bride was on every lip. Piper John 
being distinctly heard to say from one of the groups 
that Ruby Hastings’ last and most magnanimous 
act was going to be the building of a trade school 
for the young folks of Yanonalit. 

All eyes were turned upon Ezra Stark as he 
escorted his Judy and Aunt Lucinda with faltering 
steps to give their blessing to Ruby and her hand- 
some husband. 

“Hain’t changed a mite, has she, Judy?” says 
Ezra, “just the same as she alius was!” 

Let the finger hold the page while we look once 
again on the beauty and glory of the Daughter of 
Angy. 


THE DAUGHTER OF ANGY 


AFTERWARDS 

A beautiful child has come to grace the Hastings 
home, Hiram Hastings Gerard. 

Rebecca Ann declares brother Hiram, Angenette 
and all will surely spoil him if something cannot be 
done to prevent it. 

As we write, news of Suky Rocks* wedding is 
handed in, Rebecca Ann being first to discover that 
she had married a noted missionary. 

“How strange some things seem,’* she said as she 
stalked majestically from the romance. 






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One copy del. to Cat. Div. 


OCT 


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LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 



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